The General Services Administration seeks ways to cut travel costs

The General Services Administration announced Thursday the formation of a new travel advisory committee tasked with reviewing how the agency calculates per diem rates.

The 15-member Government-wide Travel Advisory Committee will be made up of federal travel managers and representatives of state and local governments, travel companies and groups. It will address current travel trends and provide recommendations on how to reduce costs and incorporate industry best practices into GSA policies, according to the agency.

From the notice announcing this committee:

The purpose of GTAC will be to review existing travel policies, processes, and procedures, that are accountable and transparent, beginning with the per diem methodology to aid in meeting agency missions in an effective and efficient manner at the lowest logical travel cost. Through the review process, the GTAC will address current industry and Federal travel trends and provide advice and make recommendations for improvements to increase travel efficiency and effectiveness, reduce costs, promote sustainability, and incorporate industry best practices. The Committee provides an opportunity for travel industry leaders, and other qualified individuals to offer their expert advice and recommendations to GSA, which among other things, is responsible for the development and implementation of the FTR which prescribes the policies for travel by Federal civilian employees and others authorized to travel at Government expense.