Oversight
Administration takes first crack at controversial women’s procurement program
SBA’s proposed rule increases number of industries in which women-owned firms are considered underrepresented.
Oversight
Procurement policy office surveys agencies on tax-delinquent contractors
Federal officials’ responses are due by March 17.
Oversight
What Can Save the Democrats?
It's hard to see how passing health care will change the current political trajectory.
Oversight
GAO: Federal financial picture is grim
Agencies reported $98 billion in improper payments in 2009; outlays far outpace revenues over long term.
Oversight
Coming soon: New guidelines on which federal jobs can be outsourced
Administration this month plans to unveil a proposal drawing a clearer line between contract and inherently governmental work.
Oversight
Hoyer: Comity needed to avoid widespread fiscal ruin
Majority leader says "bipartisan trust, presidential leadership and a public spirit" are needed to stabilize the country's financial situation.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: Army and Air Force continue to ban flash media
After U.S. Strategic Command approves limited use of USB devices , the services work on policies and procedures for the use of the media on computers and networks.
Oversight
Lawmaker pitches Consumer Financial Protection Agency counteroffer
Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., calls for a new division housed within FDIC to strengthen financial regulation.
Oversight
Congressional inaction forces Transportation to furlough 2,000
Department sends home inspectors after lawmaker blocks short-term Highway Trust Fund extension.
Oversight
Trust issues raised at first meeting of labor-management council
As group seeks to set standards for future efforts, union leaders accuse agency labor relations officials of past “obstruction.”
Defense
From Nextgov.com: Defense Department opens up to social media
New policy grants all personnel access to social networks but continues to block sites related to pornography, gambling and hate crimes.
Defense
House resolves dispute, authorizes intelligence bill
Provision creating criminal penalties for CIA interrogators who use cruel or inhuman methods to extract information from suspected terrorists was dropped.
Oversight
Proposed benefit for certain contractors draws fire
Administration reportedly considering a plan that would favor contractors who pay employees a prevailing wage, offer health care.
Oversight
Interagency contracts aren't big money-savers, panelists say
Contracting observers cite lack of oversight and inadequate competition as significant weaknesses in fee-based procurement arrangements.
Defense
New analysis fuels debate over alternative F-35 engine
Pentagon study advises against funding an alternate engine for the jet, despite finding that doing so would cost no more than procuring only the primary engine.
Defense
Marines storm the Hill seeking equal billing with Navy
Legislation would expand the name of the department and its secretary to the "Navy and Marine Corps."
Defense
Marines, Navy cite urgent 'reset' needs
Equipment stocks are at "unacceptable levels," Marine Corps commandant says.
Defense
GOP seeks to cut DHS personnel funding
Republicans want budget increases in 2011 proposal for staffing and other administrative resources to go toward mission operations.
Oversight
Bad press makes contracting an unattractive field, professor says
The acquisition workforce is one issue Defense procurement reform panel will address in forthcoming report.
Defense