Oversight

OMB releases preliminary guidance on plain writing

Memo defines plain language and details steps for complying with new legislation.

Oversight

A Smart Reid

Both Democrats and Republicans could learn some lessons from Harry Reid’s successful reelection campaign.

Defense

Navy watches clock on littoral ship plan

Adm. Gary Roughead says it could be a challenge to obtain congressional authorization to proceed by Dec. 14, when current contract proposals expire.

Defense

EADS: Mistaken data release won’t scuttle tanker contest

Contractor is giving Pentagon benefit of the doubt that an advertent release of sensitive information to its rival won't disrupt competition.

Oversight

Ex-NASA chief of staff sentenced to 41 months in prison

Courtney Stadd directed a $600,000 contract to a university that subcontracted with his consulting firm.

Oversight

Senate approves Native American, black farmer settlements

House majority leader says he will bring the measure to the floor for a vote soon.

Oversight

Two small businesses suspended in set-aside probe

EG Solutions and MultimaxArray used GTSI as subcontractors on a Homeland Security information technology contract.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: OMB plan to streamline IT purchasing wins praise but faces headwinds

House Republicans and appropriations players could resist effort to align federal technology refreshment with funding cycle.

Defense

Afghan watchdog fails to garner congressional support

Senators continue to call for removal of Arnold Fields as special inspector general for Afghanistan.

Defense

TSA makes immediate changes to airline pilot screening

Pilots will be able to get through security after presenting an airline ID and an additional form of identification.

Defense

Panel faults agencies on notification of secret activities

The committee examined 16 instances, spanning three administrations.

Defense

Airports weigh Republican's proposal to ditch TSA screeners

Rep. John Mica of Florida is calling for the replacement of federal employee screeners with private contractors.

Oversight

Alaska native contracting bill introduced in House

Move comes day after Senate measure is unveiled.

Oversight

Senate confirms Lew as OMB director

Move comes after Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., lifts hold on nomination.

Oversight

Analysis: OMB's five-prong strategy could rescue IT procurement

Plan includes career-track program to speed project approval and improve management.

Oversight

Senate minority leader effectively scuttles omnibus plan

Congress will likely be forced to keep the government running through a continuing resolution.

Oversight

House sends telework bill to Obama

Measure advances over GOP objections that it is costly and gives feds another “perk” when they already are better off than other workers.

Oversight

Watchdog calls for removal of State Department's interim IG

Group argues Harold Geisel is too close to agency management.

Defense

Group calls Defense budget cuts critical to reducing deficit

Former government officials and retired military officers say keeping department exempt from reductions is “short-sighted.”

Oversight

Awards honor plain language and condemn jargon

Advocacy group now is accepting nominations for the best and worst examples of clear communication.