Defense
Lawmakers to continue talks on massive security bill
Maine senator signals she will try to alter language on cargo scanning.
Defense
White House says report on Iraq surge might not be definitive
Press Secretary Tony Snow says administration is not just trying to buy more time.
Oversight
Controllers at busiest airports retiring in large numbers
New analysis shows breakdown in contract talks has led to jump in controller retirements.
Oversight
Union seeks mandatory bargaining over mail delivery contracting
Labor groups say requirement would eliminate need for congressional intervention; Postal Service argues existing avenues to address disputes are adequate.
Oversight
Lawmaker presses OSC chief to hand over e-mails
Rep. Tom Davis, R-Va., wants more information on any work-related messages Special Counsel Scott Bloch sent via a personal account.
Defense
Appropriators supply funds for alternate fighter jet engine
Pentagon officials want to cancel the second engine to save $1.8 billion in the international fighter program over the next five years.
Oversight
House passes Labor-HHS spending bill with veto threat looming
Measure exceeds President Bush’s request by $12.5 billion, or 8.8 percent – the biggest difference in any of the appropriations bills.
Tech
Mobility of federal workers hinders data security
Recent Office of Management and Budget directive will require encryption of all sensitive data, whether it is being used or is at rest.
Oversight
Ousted hurricane center chief defends request for new satellite
Head of NOAA says Bill Proenza was reassigned because he wasn’t showing good leadership.
Defense
Surveillance tower raises suspicion in border town
Some in Arivaca, Ariz., are convinced the Homeland Security Department equipment is there to watch them, rather than the border.
Oversight