Defense
Panel defeats comprehensive cargo screening amendment
Industry groups had placed intense pressure on committee Republicans to reject the language.
Defense
Senate approves $1.9 billion for border security
Increase passed as amendment to wartime supplemental spending bill would be offset by a 2.8 percent cut in bill’s military programs.
Pay & Benefits
House panel backs 2.7 percent military pay raise
Action likely to set off a battle to provide a similar increase for civilian federal employees; President Bush has proposed 2.2 percent.
Defense
DHS agencies fight uphill battle against counterfeiting
Senators, private sector officials say illegitimate commerce has taken a back seat to immigration enforcement, anti-terror programs.
Management
Postal Service asked to hold off on rate increase
House Government Reform Committee chairman says it would be wise to wait until postal reform legislation is closer to completion.
Defense
Fate of threat advisory system remains unclear
Bill that would require security alerts to be targeted to specific regions or economic interests has not made much headway.
Management
Bush names executive at Illinois firm to head SBA
Steven Preston is executive vice president of the $3.6 billion ServiceMaster Co.
Tech
Tax filers use IRS Web site in record numbers
Security experts and the agency are confident that the site is secure from hackers.
News
Chief of Small Business Administration resigns
Hector Barreto leaves to head a Hispanic advocacy group.
Management
Iraq contractor admits to bribery and fraud
Inspector general’s office says more arrests to follow.
Defense
DHS to check port workers against terrorist watch lists
Agency also says rules for Transportation Worker Identification Credential will be published soon.
Defense
Air Force launches latest effort to replace aging tankers
Document signals agency is exploring a range of options, from purchases of new and used commercial aircraft, to leasing services.
Pay & Benefits
Federal labor lawyers dispute their own contract
National Labor Relations Board lawyers angry over cuts in detail assignments, performance awards.
Defense