Government Furnished Equipment

Government owned computers and telecommunications equipment can be placed in an alternate work site. The government will retain ownership and control of the equipment and be responsible for its repair and maintenance. Public Law 104-52 § 620 (31 USC 1348) states:

"Notwithstanding any provisions of this or any other Act, during the fiscal year ending September 30, 1996, and hereafter, any department, division, bureau, or office may use funds appropriated by this or any other Act to install telephone lines, any necessary equipment, and to pay monthly charges, in any private residence or private apartment of an employee who has been authorized to work at home in accordance with guidelines issued by the Office of Personnel Management: Provided, That the head of the department, division, bureau, or office certifies that adequate safeguards against private misuse exist, and that the service is necessary for direct support of the agency's mission."

Thus, the law authorizes agencies to pay for telephone installation at alternate work sites. A telephone credit card may be substituted for a telephone installation.

See:

Forest Service Manual 6161.31—Government-Furnished Equipment and Services