In recent months, federal contractors have seen an uptick in very specific types of contracting activity. As a result of various Executive Orders, and DOGE directives for agencies to conduct contract reviews and engage in mass contract cancellations, there has been a flurry of terminations for convenience, suspensions/stop-work orders, and contract modifications. Payments—even those undisputedly due and owing—have been delayed, and other EO- and DOGE-related impacts (as well as mass federal employee layoffs) have given rise to various claim issues. Many contractors have been left confused, and unsure how to proceed in response to these developments. This Comment seeks to address those concerns and provide contractors with a guide on how to navigate recent challenges, with a focus on preserving claim rights and maximizing recovery. Because of the breadth and complexity of the issues faced by Federal Government contractors in the current climate, this Comment has been drafted in two parts. This, the first of two installments, addresses the issue of unpaid invoices, and discusses terminations for convenience. Next month’s follow-up will discuss suspensions and stop-work orders, as well as the potential for other types of claims arising out of EOs, DOGE-related impacts, and tariffs.
Click to read the full article in The Government Contractor.