Defense
House attempt at bill revamping FEMA stalls
Partisan squabble blamed for delay in legislation that would leapfrog Senate efforts to reconstruct the beleaguered agency.
Defense
Decision to halt security clearance processing prompts outcry
OPM says funding problem that led Defense Security Service to stop forwarding applications will be cleared up in a few days.
Defense
DHS urged to approve standards for private airport screeners
Lack of performance criteria shields contractors from legal ramifications of negligence, GAO says.
Defense
FEMA workers want to shift focus away from post-Katrina reports
Employees urge independence from DHS, and try to concentrate on preparing for the upcoming hurricane season.
Defense
Senators aim to kill FEMA, add disaster reservists
Committee report backs creation of new agency within Homeland Security to coordinate federal emergency response.
Defense
DHS agencies fight uphill battle against counterfeiting
Senators, private sector officials say illegitimate commerce has taken a back seat to immigration enforcement, anti-terror programs.
Defense
Head of visitor tracking program wants global ID system
Proposed system would require the cooperation of several Homeland Security agencies, including CBP, CIS and TSA.
Defense
Immigration enforcement agency seeks funding, staff boost
Plan is short on details about staffing levels and funding requirements necessary for specific enforcement initiatives.
Defense
FEMA acquisitions chief pushes recruiting program
Deidre Lee also backs calls for more contingency contracts to prepare in advance for disasters.
Defense
Intelligence director’s refusal to cooperate with GAO irks lawmakers
GAO report calls for less restriction of sensitive but unclassified data.
Defense
Acting FEMA chief backs suggestions for improved disaster response
R. David Paulison says, however, that fixes will take several years.
Defense
Employees accuse FEMA of racial bias in personnel decisions
NAACP is investigating several claims that blacks were overlooked for promotions and is considering a lawsuit.
Defense
FEMA employees laud suggestions for improved disaster response
Lack of coordination at agency blamed in IG report for post-Katrina lapses.
Defense
Ex-FEMA chief endorses Bush nominee
James Lee Witt, director in the Clinton administration, remains concerned about agency’s future within DHS.
Defense
Ex-FEMA director withholds endorsement of new nominee
James Lee Witt, who headed the agency in the Clinton administration, says he is encouraged by support for making FEMA independent again.
Defense