Defense
Bill would keep Defense labs out of new personnel system
Pay-for-performance demonstration projects are working, so there’s no need to move employees to the National Security Personnel System, sponsor says.
News
Enforcement agency expands Hatch Act probe
Office of Special Counsel to look at improper political presentations and e-mail exchanges that may have occurred across the executive branch.
Defense
Subcommittee clears bill to step up screening of airport workers
Supporter cites four recent cases at different airports in which individuals misused their status as authorized employees.
Defense
VA chief outlines immediate changes in vets' health care
All arriving patients will be screened for brain injuries, which are common because of frequent percussive blasts in Iraq.
Management
Panel backs measure to curb contract bundling
Bill also would increase goal for federal contract dollars going to small firms, from 23 percent to 30 percent.
Management
Science agencies' media policy draws fire
Policy prevents scientists at two agencies from making personal statements in interviews on federal property or during work hours.
Management
GOP lawmaker concerned about Justice staff departures
The firings of eight federal prosecutors last year will make it hard to attract top candidates to fill vacancies, senator says.
Defense
Homeland Security chief vows to win control of borders
Bipartisan group of House lawmakers asks DHS to immediately send more money to sheriffs along the southwest border.
Defense
Air Force seeks to recover funds diverted to Army
Service needs the money back to cover payroll and other personnel costs.
Defense
Auditors raise more questions about FEMA trailer contracts
Work was awarded to companies with poor finances and unrealistic pricing, IG finds.
Pay & Benefits
Lawmakers seek to extend combat-zone tax break to feds
Civilian federal employees are eligible for hardship pay up to a ceiling, but do not get the tax benefits offered to military personnel and contractors.
Defense
Defense procurement chief backs interagency contracts
Top acquisition official says department is looking both inside and out to meet its acquisition needs.
Management
Appropriator open to keeping 2008 bills earmark-free
Full elimination of pet projects still under discussion; idea has prompted concern.
Defense
Conferees pass spending bill with softened troop provisions
President Bush still likely to veto the measure despite compromise language setting non-binding targets for withdrawal.
Oversight