docs: def is_effective(self):
          """Tests if the current date is within the start end end dates inclusive.
  
          return: (boolean) - ``true`` if this is effective, ``false``
                  otherwise
          *compliance: mandatory -- This method must be implemented.*
  
          """
          now = DateTime.utcnow()
          return self.get_start_date() <= now and self.get_end_date() >= now