Substantial New Rules Implementing “Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces” E.O. Create Risks for Contractors and Subcontractors

On Thursday, August 25, 2016, the US government issued a final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (“FAR”) to implement President Obama’s Executive Order on “Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces.” In addition, the Department of Labor issued final guidance to assist in the implementation of the Executive Order. The final rule and guidance represent significant new obligations and risks for contractors and subcontractors, who should start preparing now to address them. This Legal Update focuses on the final FAR rule because it imposes specific requirements on contractors and subcontractors.