Oversight
Privacy protections strengthened in health IT bill
But amended version of legislation also states that a "good faith" data disclosure, like a letter sent to the wrong address, would not constitute a privacy breach.
Pay & Benefits
Agencies to boost efforts to hire more disabled employees, report says
Virtual recruiting can make job candidates more comfortable, improve communication.
Defense
Air Force nominees say they will try to regain public's trust
Some lawmakers are skeptical about whether the leadership change can solve systemic problems at the service.
Oversight
Losing Ground
Republicans no longer have a realistic chance of holding their own in this year's Senate contests.
News
From Nextgov.com: HHS to pay doctors to use prescription systems
Financial incentives aimed at adding to the 10 percent of clinicians who now use an e-prescribing system.
Defense
Defense earmarks went beyond mission, IG says
In fiscal 2007, Congress appropriated $18 million in unnecessary funds, report concludes.
Defense
National security observers explain FISA ins and outs
The government's new surveillance law is a dense patchwork of new authorities that has puzzled even those most familiar with it.
Oversight
Judiciary chairman wants to talk with former OSC deputy
Jim Byrne, outgoing aide to embattled Special Counsel Scott Bloch, has said Bloch's failure to resign is hurting the agency.
Defense
Trade groups ask Congress to delay cargo security rule
Rule would require manufacturers to submit 10 new categories of data on cargo containers before they are shipped to the United States by sea.
Defense
Democratic leaders weigh defense bill as vehicle for continuing resolution
Congressional aides noted that President Bush would not be able to veto the defense measure, making it an attractive option.
Pay & Benefits
No spike in TSP loans, withdrawals despite weak economy
Officials say the Thrift Savings Plan hasn’t experienced the same volatility as private sector 401(k) plans.
Defense
From Nextgov.com: Security analysts praise Obama's pledge for a cyber chief
Position's direct line to the president would give cybersecurity more clout, but how much is unclear.
Defense
Lawmaker raises concerns over huge TSA personnel contract
House committee chairman wants specifics on how $1.2 billion deal would address agency’s persistent workforce problems.
Oversight
IRS head says agency to focus efforts on enforcement
Commissioner says the agency has largely met the goals of a 1998 measure requiring it to shed its geographic-based structure.
Defense