Purpose:
This directive describes the U.S. General Services Administration’s (GSA) policy on the authorization and payment of travel expenses for TDY travel within the Continental United States (CONUS) and non-foreign areas. It contains standards, instructions, and procedures governing the authorization and payment of transportation, per diem, and miscellaneous travel expenses for employees on official travel in connection with the programs and operations of GSA and conforms with the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR), Executive Orders, appropriate statutes, decisions of the Civilian Board of Contract Appeals (CBCA), and determinations of the Administrator of General Services.
Background:
The Federal Travel Regulation (Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 41, Chapters 300 through 304) (FTR) is the Government-wide regulation that implements statutory requirements and Executive Branch policies for travel by Federal civilian employees and others authorized to travel at Government expense. This directive provides agency policy regarding travel allowances as required by FTR part 301-70.
Applicability:
This directive applies to all GSA organizations, programs, and personnel, including all Services, Staff Offices, and Regions. This Order applies to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to the extent that the OIG determines it is consistent with the OIG’s independent authority under the Inspector General Reform Act of 2008 and does not conflict with other OIG policies or the OIG mission. This Order applies to CBCA to the extent that the CBCA determines it is consistent with the CBCA’s independent authority under the Contract Disputes Act and applicable Federal Court decisions and does not conflict with other CBCA policies or its mission.
This directive supplements the FTR and is issued under the authority of the FTR. Supervisors, approval authorities, and employees must still consult the FTR to ensure compliance with the regulations and internal GSA policies not specifically addressed in this supplement. Employees should consult the other internal policies referenced herein for additional guidance on those specific topics.
Cancellation:
This Order cancels and supersedes OAS 5700.1C, Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel Policy.
Summary of Changes:
The following changes have been made to the Order:
- The format and numbering of paragraphs has been updated, consistent with OAS 1832.1C, Internal Directives Management.
- Policy recommending use of zero-emission or alternate fuel vehicles has been removed.
- All policy references and links have been verified and updated, if needed.
Roles and Responsibilities:
The Office of Travel and Charge Card Services, Office of Administrative Services (OAS), is responsible for developing travel policy for GSA employees and for individuals authorized to travel at GSA’s expense. Any regional or other directives related to the authorization and approval of official travel, or reimbursement of travel-related expenses, must be cleared in advance through the Office of Travel and Charge Card Services.
U.S. General Services Administration