Kevin Connelly Published in Washington Business Journal
"The importance of full disclosure in federal contracting"

Seyfarth Shaw Government Contracts partner Kevin Connelly wrote an article published in the Washington Business Journal on August 16. The article discussed the importance of reporting all related matters to the government prior to seeking new government contract work.

Kevin examined a case involving MTS Systems Corp., a Minnesota-based test system maker which sought government contract work from the Air Force and didn't properly report misdemeanors to an online database of contractors' representations and certifications. He points out that government contractors should be aware of strict disclosure requirements in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause 52.209-5. The clause requires certification that the contractor is not presently debarred or suspended; has been convicted or had a civil judgment rendered against it in several areas within the past three years; is not currently indicted or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a government entity for a range of offenses; or was notified within the past three years of delinquent federal taxes totaling more than $3,000, which is left outstanding.

Kevin suggested contractors carefully analyze their company history, and when determining whether or not something should be reported, err on the side of caution. 

Click here to read the full article: http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/blog/fedbiz_daily/2011/08/the-importance-of-full-disclosure-in.html