I went to a Bob Dylan concert a couple of years ago because friends convinced me to see a legend. He sang, “The Times They Are a Changing.” They certainly are, Bob.
Let’s start with GSA, which is near and dear to my heart, since Centre Law both has a GSA Schedule and also does GSA Schedule consulting for a multitude of clients.
#1. GSA
GSA, in my opinion, is becoming a test agency for Reductions in Force (RIFs) and consolidations under the Trump and DOGE changes. Current RIFs are in the Office of Administrative Services, Technology Transformation (eliminated almost all personnel) and Public Buildings (pretty much gone). The Federal Acquisition Service (FAS), which manages GSA Schedules, is also scheduled for RIFs in 2025 – 2026. At the same time GSA is planning to take over the contracting functions at several agencies, including the Office of Personnel Management, the Education Department, and the Small Business Administration according to our sources.
#2. OPM
The entire contracting office has been eliminated. There are no contracting officers left at OPM. If you are a contractor supporting OPM, I don’t know how you get invoices approved, let alone contract changes. What is interesting about these layoffs is that Trump OPM appointee, McLaurine Pinover, who is overseeing the mass layoffs, has a side hack during office hours when she posts her latest fashion choices on Instagram from her office. There are affiliate links for some of the clothing.
#3. EPA
Expect significant cuts in both contracts and employees in the coming weeks. Government Executive reported that an email sent out to EPA employees stated that all expenditures over $50,000 must be approved by DOGE. EPA Administrator Zeldin announced that he has worked with DOGE to cancel $20 billion in funding appropriated through the Inflation Reduction Act. Those contractors who have started projects funded by that money are probably in line for a termination for convenience.
So much to talk about and not enough hours in the day. Good luck to all feds and contractors. Until next week.
Best,
Barbara
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