Defense
Border bill backers seek boost in enforcement provisions
Proposed amendment will include jail time for immigrants who enter the country illegally or overstay temporary visas after the measure is enacted.
Defense
Air Force still pressing to control unmanned aerial vehicle programs
Proposal has received significant attention on Capitol Hill, where both the House and Senate Armed Services panels have asked the military to review the matter further.
Tech
Panelists discuss cyber threats, government response
Agencies are making significant investments in security, but need to be more proactive at preventing data breaches, security firm official says.
Defense
Protective service under fire for oversight of contract guards
Hundreds of contract guards went unpaid for as many as six weeks.
Defense
Dems, Bush prepare for battle over spending levels
Democrats have exceeded Bush’s $933 billion budget request by about $23 billion.
Oversight
New cards may make user IDs, passwords obsolete
Standard identification cards could be used to log on to computers and other services, GSA official says.
Defense
DHS chief opposes alternative approach to worker eligibility checks
Michael Chertoff says proposed addition to immigration bill would allow illegal workers to hide by remaining in their current jobs.
Oversight
Report finds federal researchers unsure of media rules
Many are not clear about whether they can discuss the policy implications of their work.
Defense
State Department urged to beef up mental health support
Foreign Service employees returning from the Middle East may decide not to seek help for emotional problems due to fear of retaliation, officials testify.
Pay & Benefits
Payband Balancing Act
Some advice for agencies on striking a balance among efficiency, equity and employee acceptance in pay for performance systems.
Defense
Analysts say plans to buy fighter jets too costly
Report doesn’t recommend cancellation of program, but says services need to look at more affordable options.
Oversight