The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) announced its return to “normal operations” to contractors on a federal procurement website following the end of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
“Contractors are advised that DOE/NNSA contracting activities have resumed,” the notice said Nov. 13. “DOE/NNSA appreciates the patience and cooperation of our contractor community and values your continued partnership in advancing the Department’s mission.”
Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), whose district abuts the Y-12 National Security Complex and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, told the Exchange Monitor last month contractors have had “sufficient reserves to weather” the shutdown, but still had to curtail hours for some contract workers. He also said the funds halted during the shutdown would be slow to start, potentially six months to a year slow.