Management

Pay for Performance is the Only Choice

At this point, the General Schedule is an impediment to good government.

Management

VA Procurement and Security Clearance Processing Land on GAO’s High-Risk List

Hiring reform remains a key challenge and contributes to problems across government, the watchdog found.

Oversight

HHS Vigorously Defended Its Employees, But Senators Still Want Answers on Alleged Sexual Assault Against Immigrant Children

Request for investigation comes after newly released data show 4,500 allegations of sexual abuse against children in government care.

Nextgov

VA to Pilot Health Records System in March 2020

Lawmakers still have serious concerns about the agency’s multibillion health records overhaul.

Management

Agriculture Department Staff Given Marching Orders for Controversial Move

Despite legislated delay, research offices prepare to relocate most employees.

Management

What Did You Learn From Your Worst Boss Ever?

There are definitely “worst boss” behaviors that come up again and again that serve as a reference point for anyone who wants to be the best boss.

Defense

We’ll Soon Learn Whether You Can Post 3D-Gun Plans Online

A proposed export-rules change has snagged over the question: is publishing such designs a boon to U.S. business or foreign terrorists?

Tech

U.S. Takes Tentative Steps Toward Opening Up Government Data

A new act requires that all nonsensitive government data be made available publicly by January 2020. But the plan could open up new privacy issues.

Oversight

Play of the Day: Hillary Clinton Is Not Running For President Again

The 2020 election will not feature the former Secretary of State.

Route Fifty

Considering a State Bank for Local Governments

Proponents say it could help with infrastructure financing, particularly for smaller jurisdictions. Bankers are skeptical.

Defense

Top NATO General: Don’t Sell F-35 To Turkey If It Buys Russian SAMs

Gen. Scaparrotti, who leads U.S. European Command, also wants more naval forces at his disposal.

Route Fifty

Counties Push for Sustainable Public Lands Payment Programs

Local and federal officials argue two funding streams they count on are part of a “social safety net” for primarily rural, Western jurisdictions.

Pay & Benefits

Lawmakers' Renewed Push for Paid Family Leave for Feds Includes More Generous Benefits

Rep. Carolyn Maloney, the bill's author, predicts this will finally be the year the reforms are implemented.

Management

House Democrats Ramp Up Pressure on White House Security Clearances

Justice Department is asked to investigate whether Trump interfered with Kushner’s case.

Oversight

Senator Takes on Budget, Pay and Hiring Reforms in Latest Version of Annual Waste Report

Lankford goes beyond the usual rundown of silly grants, suggesting ways to end shutdowns and save money through benefits changes.

Nextgov

Scammers Are Spoofing DHS Phone Numbers to Get Your Personal Info

Recipients also are being pressured for money to avoid arrest.

Management

Most Stakeholders Say They're Optimistic About Trump’s New OPM Pick

Dale Cabaniss will be tasked with implementing controversial provisions of the Trump administration's government reorganization plan.

Route Fifty

New Mexico Boosts Cap for Medical Marijuana Growers

The increase is temporary as state officials determine a permanent cap that will keep pace with growing patient enrollment.

Defense

What Will Come After a U.S. Withdrawal From Afghanistan?

The U.S. has been at war in Afghanistan since a few weeks after 9/11. Now we are negotiating a peace with the Taliban, the same insurgents who sheltered Osama bin Laden.