The General Services Administration (GSA) is re-examining its data, revealing a startling truth: none of the federal buildings in its database meet the minimum occupancy target set by law. This revelation has sparked intense debate and calls for action, as the GSA takes a closer look at the data it has collected. The USE IT Act, signed by former President Joe Biden, mandates that agencies demonstrate a minimum 60% utilization rate or develop plans to downsize their office space. However, the GSA's data shows that none of the 9,700 buildings meet this threshold. This has led to a reevaluation of the data collection methods and interpretation, with the GSA's acting commissioner, Andrew Heller, acknowledging that the comparison may not be entirely accurate. The USE IT Act's focus on total space, including areas like auditoriums and conference rooms, has led to a rethinking of how occupancy is measured. The GSA is now working with the Federal Real Property Council and the Office of Management and Budget to create an occupancy working group, aiming to provide recommendations for improving data collection and interpretation. The Trump administration's justification for selling and consolidating agency headquarters within the D.C. metro area has been underutilized office buildings. The FBI, Education Department, and Energy Department are all relocating to more efficient spaces, with the GSA planning to sell the Forrestal Building. However, critics argue that the data collection methods need revision, as agencies struggle to meet the USE IT Act's occupancy goals. The debate rages on, with some suggesting a higher bar for federal building occupancy, while others call for a reevaluation of the data collection process. The GSA's reexamination of the data highlights the complexities of federal building occupancy and the need for a comprehensive approach to address the issue.
