Defense
TSA nominee withdraws from consideration
Harding’s business dealings had come under scrutiny.
Oversight
Black farmers' leader slams Obama
John Boyd Jr. says president, USDA did not show leadership in the settlement of the discrimination lawsuit.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: IT problems still hound Census as it readies count
GAO warns needed fixes to major systems might not be finished before it starts counting citizens who didn’t return forms, but bureau officials say they will be ready in time.
Oversight
Utilities take wait-and-see approach to smart grid investment, survey finds
Executives cite uncertainty over federal energy policy and worry about their ability to recover investment costs.
Defense
IG finds gaps in State oversight of embassy guard contracts
Department is again under scrutiny for failing to properly manage private security guards in war zones.
Oversight
Republicans say Iraq watchdog should be a comptroller general candidate
GOP lawmakers would like to add Stuart Bowen, the special inspector general for Iraq reconstruction, to Democrats’ list of contenders.
Defense
Pentagon revises gay ban enforcement policies
New regulations aim to introduce ‘a greater measure of common sense and common decency,’ says Defense secretary.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: GSA chief says agency will ‘up its game’ with technology
Administrator Martha Johnson says improving the flow of information and data, and more reliance on social media will provide better service to agencies and will be what drives growth.
Oversight
OMB, Treasury issue guidance for reducing improper payments
Agencies identified nearly $100 billion in improper payments in 2009.
Oversight
Senate sends fixes bill back to House
Adjustments to the health care reconciliation bill are minor.
Oversight
Lawmakers announce bipartisan Transparency Caucus
Group will advocate for transparency initiatives and promote legislation requiring open access to federal information.
Oversight
Roster for deficit commission is complete
Commission will present its proposals to Congress by Dec. 1; 14 of its 18 members must agree on the final package.
Oversight
Recovery Act auditors aim to strengthen contractor oversight
Tools developed to monitor stimulus spending could have long-term benefits for IGs and financial managers.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: Health care reform bill targets technology to improve medical services
Funding included for development of primary care models that integrate decision support tools and remote diagnostics for both doctors and patients.
Defense
Gates assures no more F-35 cost, schedule woes
Defense secretary says Pentagon's largest weapons system program is on track after a rocky history.
Defense
Senator seeks five IG reports on TSA nominee
Susan Collins, R-Maine, says White House has been slow to disclose information regarding allegations against Army Maj. Gen. Robert Harding.
Oversight
Defense acquisition reform panel issues final recommendations
Report calls for changes to Pentagon’s financial management and for giving acquisition workers more incentive to perform well.
Oversight
Treasury chief: Federal role in housing agencies will change
Fannie and Freddie cannot continue their existing hybrid structure, says Geithner.
Oversight
Acquisition councils create database to track contractor misdeeds
System will be a one-stop shop for information on performance and legal violations.
Oversight