Pay & Benefits
Bill would give all workers federal-level retirement benefits
A sweeping proposal could extend Federal Employees Retirement System–level pensions to the private sector, reshaping how Americans plan for retirement.
Management
Veterans Affairs reduces claims backlog at record rate
The Veterans Affairs Department processed more disability compensation and pension claims in fiscal 2025 than any other previous year.
Workforce
Amid staffing cuts, Forest Service wants seasonal firefighters to work more hours this year
One employee says the Trump administration is "scared as hell about staffing" as it enters peak wildfire season.
Workforce
Trump administration nixes union contracts at FEMA, USCIS, food safety agencies
Union officials warn that their excision from federal workplaces will ultimately degrade service to the public.
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Workforce
Layoffs canceled at federal contractor oversight office, but questions remain about employee reassignments
Employees at the Labor Department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs received a notice that they will get new job assignments rather than be removed from the civil service.
Management
SSA said it removed strict ID requirements on its phone line, but internal policy says otherwise
The agency said in a recent regulatory filing that the identification pin had been made optional for those wishing to change direct deposit information over the phone. Internal policy says they’re still required.
Pay & Benefits
OPM urges ‘objective’ ratings in employee awards under new performance rules
The new policies called for restarting the Presidential Rank Awards in fiscal 2026, but emphasized performance metrics “be differentiated in a meaningful and objective manner” to recognize federal employees.
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Management
After firing of BLS chief, Lutnick tells federal statisticians that independence is ‘nonsense’
Employees should only focus on accuracy and getting “the right answer,” Commerce secretary says.
Workforce
Fewer Republicans view a nonpartisan civil service as essential, survey shows
The Partnership for Public Service’s survey also found that trust in the federal government increased from 23% in 2024 to 33%, driven largely by more positive views from GOP respondents.
Management
Trump administration cuts to terrorism prevention departments could leave Americans exposed
COMMENTARY | The U.S. military and law enforcement's counterterrorism efforts are largely grounded in responding to threats, while the federal government's prevention efforts have largely been winnowed due to ongoing personnel reductions.
Tech
How Trump’s DC takeover could supercharge surveillance
The emergency declaration, combined with new tech, will give government broad new abilities to watch and monitor citizens.
Management
DOGE can maintain access to federal personnel data, court rules
The DOGE affiliates will also keep unfettered access to federal education and taxpayer information.
Management
Trump taps economist from the Heritage Foundation to head the Bureau of Labor Statistics
The nominee, E.J. Antoni, has harshly criticized the previous BLS commissioner.
Management
FBI report: U.S. crime rates fell nationwide in 2024
Violent crime fell by 4.5% last year, including a nearly 15% drop in homicides.
Management
Judge orders White House budget office to reveal information about spending decisions
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit mandated that the Office of Management and Budget restore a website detailing federal spending timelines.
Workforce
EPA becomes the second federal agency to cancel its union contracts
In an email Friday, an official claimed the continued recognition of unions at EPA would constitute “irreparable harm to national security” at the agency responsible for fighting pollution.
Management
Trump federalizes D.C. police, says takeover will enable federal employees to work in peace
Agency officials say federal staff are excited and prepared for new deployments.
Oversight
Under fire, GAO explains its mission to Congress
COMMENTARY | The Government Accountability Office publishes a blog to explain its role amid threatened budget cuts and rhetoric that questions its value.
Management
IRS chief to leave agency less than two months after assuming the role
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will take over, becoming the sixth person to head IRS in Trump's second term.
Management