Defense
Labor group opposes Senate pay-for-performance language
Coalition claims provision in Senate’s fiscal 2010 Defense authorization bill contains loopholes that would create a “refried version” of NSPS.
Pay & Benefits
Draft rule opens long-term care, leave programs to domestic partners
Regulation implements executive order issued by President Obama in June; agencies are completing policy reviews that could lead to broader reforms.
Oversight
USDA will debut new version of online learning platform
AgLearn will provide more social media tools for employees to use and serve as a model for job training programs in China.
Defense
Senator urges faster buildup of Afghan forces
Carl Levin, D-Mich., says move would be more effective than sending more U.S. combat troops to the country.
Defense
TSA workforce reform bill takes another step forward
Supporters say the legislation would put airport screeners on par with other federal employees, while critics argue it could jeopardize security.
Pay & Benefits
Back in Session
After a not-so-relaxing August recess, lawmakers return to a full docket of bills related to the federal workforce.
Defense
Defense opposes cuts in funding for civilian Air Force personnel
Pentagon officials also object to authorization bill language that could result in the repeal of a controversial pay-for-performance system.
Oversight
Homeland Security breaks ground at new headquarters
The facility in Southeast Washington will unify the department and help bring jobs to the surrounding struggling neighborhoods, officials say.
Oversight
Telework experiments can breed acceptance, observers say
An overwhelming majority of employees and managers who participated in Virginia’s telework day reported no problems with the practice.
Pay & Benefits
Union leaders make NSPS repeal, personnel reform major priorities
August conventions help employee groups prepare for fall legislative sessions.
Pay & Benefits
Pay Primer
Separating fact from fiction in the debate over federal employee compensation can be difficult.
Pay & Benefits
Study forecasts hiring surge in critical government jobs
Many new hires expected in public health, homeland security and veterans services.
Pay & Benefits
TSP funds recover more slowly in August
Some investment options post sizable gains this year, but have yet to make up for losses in 2008.
Pay & Benefits
Obama stands firm on 2 percent civilian pay hike
President says a lower-than-mandated raise is warranted, given a national emergency since Sept. 11 and the faltering economy; Congress could override the plan.
Pay & Benefits
OPM urges agencies to review age limits for new hires
Memo follows MSPB ruling about violation of veterans preference.
Pay & Benefits
Communication Mistakes
Erroneous benefits information often is a result of misunderstandings.
Pay & Benefits
Budget office predicts hiring reforms would cost $40 million
Supporters say figure is a small price to pay for streamlined recruitment strategies.
Oversight