By Robert Brodsky
For months, few concrete details have emerged about the Obama administration's controversial, but as yet unannounced High Road contracting policy, which would allow agencies to favor labor-friendly firms when evaluating bid proposals.
But documents obtained last week by Government Executive could shed some light on the proposed initiative. The documents detail how the policy change could be implemented and its implications for the federal acquisition environment. It is not clear if administration officials or an outside advocacy group authored the memos.
One document, dated June 25, 2009, states positive weight in the source selection process would be given to bidders based on the labor standards for their workforce. The criteria would include whether the bidder pays a livable wage, provides "quality, affordable health insurance," an employer-funded retirement plan and paid sick leave. Other factors would include the company's record in complying with tax and labor laws.
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