Oversight
Federal jobs not automatically competitive, administration argues
In court filing, Justice Department says president has authority to determine which jobs are subject to competition.
Pay & Benefits
A Fresh Start
SEC’s collaborative approach to rebuilding its failed pay-for-performance system might offer lessons for other agencies.
Oversight
OPM meets most 2008 strategic goals
Agency still struggles with the rollout of its electronic retirement system.
Oversight
State Department urged to boost hiring
New report cautions against an increasing “militarization” of diplomacy.
Pay & Benefits
OPM announces 2008 Presidential Rank Award winners
Defense and Homeland Security boast most recipients.
Pay & Benefits
SEC, union settle pay-for-performance case
Agency will implement revised merit system and a diversity agreement.
Pay & Benefits
OPM issues guidelines for discrimination and retaliation cases
Report recommends less severe disciplinary actions for employees with long tenures and no record of previous problems.
Pay & Benefits
Study: Cost of domestic partner benefits could be limited
If state-level experiences are any indication, low enrollment would hold costs down.
Pay & Benefits
Senate passes bill approving locality pay for Alaska and Hawaii
Lawmakers say move will ensure federal retirees in those states receive equal benefits.
Pay & Benefits
TSP funds nosedive in September
Wall Street turmoil drags down funds, continuing yearlong trend.
Political World
Minding the Hatch Act
Feds can participate in campaign activities as long as they don’t cross the line.
Features
Hidden Talent
Removing obstacles for workers with disabilities is about more than ramps and readers—it’s about tapping the skills agencies need.
Oversight
Government reform groups unveil transition plan
Strong performance measurements and attention to workforce are called key to the next administration’s agenda.
Pay & Benefits
Salary council discusses 2009 raise, pay gap data
Private sector incentive pay could distort salary differences, which help to determine locality raises.
Pay & Benefits
TSP Tumult
Investors antsy to make more trades should remember that the federal employee retirement plan isn’t designed for that.
Pay & Benefits
OPM opposes domestic partnership benefits bill
Panel witnesses and lawmakers dispute agency’s claim that extending such benefits could lead to insurance fraud.
Oversight
Federal managers pessimistic about government performance
Majority expect the presidential transition to hinder progress.
Defense
TSA volunteers lend a hand in Houston after Ike
Union expresses concerns about hurricane-related disciplinary actions, but TSA disputes reports.
Pay & Benefits