Defense
Forward Observer: Last Best Chance
Partitioning Iraq into Shia, Sunni and Kurdish states may be the best way to foster stability.
Defense
Lawmakers send 9/11 bill to Bush’s desk
Republicans point out that the bill fails to consolidate congressional oversight of homeland security affairs.
Oversight
White House says Dems are trying to 'destroy' Gonzales
Press official says lawmakers put the attorney general in an impossible situation by asking questions about a classified program.
Oversight
Senate backs holding TSA to standard contracting rules
Chamber approves spending bill amendment that would repeal the agency’s exemption from governmentwide regulations.
Oversight
Caution urged on border, immigration contracts
Demands could cause jump in spending, requiring care to avoid waste and abuse, congressional staff member says.
Oversight
Crash probe raises issue of air traffic controller staffing
National Transportation Safety Board unsure second controller would have prevented crash of Comair Flight 5191.
Pay & Benefits
Senators propose incentives to attract public health workers
New bill would offer scholarships and loan repayments in exchange for a service commitment.
Defense
Senate passes $40.6 billion in homeland security spending
Bill would provide only $5 million for department’s new personnel system, $10 million less than the amount President Bush requested.
Oversight
House approves Commerce-Justice-Science spending bill
Measure exceeds Bush’s request by $2.3 billion, and did not pass by enough votes to sustain a veto.
Pay & Benefits
Best Dates to Retire 2008
Getting down to specifics on how to maximize your benefits if you’re thinking about retiring next year.
Oversight
Lawmakers seek disciplinary action against FDA official
House members upset by officewide e-mail in which assistant commissioner criticized testimony of fellow FDA employees at a congressional hearing.
Oversight
House panel probes charges of human trafficking in Iraq embassy project
Whistleblowers allege Kuwaiti company mistreated employees, but IG finds no evidence to back claims.
Oversight
Bush invites congressional leaders to talk about spending, other issues
Democrats and Bush are separated by about $23 billion on fiscal 2008 spending.
Oversight