What type of purchases are expressly prohibited with the GPC?

The prohibition against purchasing gifts for employees with the Government Purchase Card (GPC) is rooted in the ethical guidelines and regulations governing the use of government funds. Gifts are considered personal expenses and could create perceptions of favoritism or unethical behavior, especially within a government context where transparency and accountability are key. Allowing such purchases could undermine trust in government operations and lead to conflicts of interest.

In contrast, other categories like official training supplies, emergency medical supplies, and office furniture are permissible under certain conditions, as they directly support government operations and meet specific mission requirements outlined in the regulations guiding GPC usage. These purchases serve function-specific purposes; for example, training supplies facilitate employee development, emergency medical supplies support health and safety, and office furniture helps create a functional work environment. Thus, the distinction lies in the alignment of the purchase with official duties rather than personal benefits.