Workforce
Third postal union ratifies new labor contract
The agreements come as a new postmaster general is under pressure to unwind the reforms of his predecessor.
Management
Artificial intelligence could supercharge Trump’s deregulatory push, but experts flag shortfalls
While noting AI’s benefits, speakers at a Tuesday event argued that an overreliance on the technology while developing regulations could lead to poor decisionmaking and legal challenges.
Management
Senate confirms new Office of Personnel Management head in mostly party-line vote
Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, was the only Republican to vote against Scott Kupor's nomination.
Management
High case numbers could snarl federal employees who appeal their removals
The Merit Systems Protection Board reported that, so far this fiscal year, it has received 11,166 appeals, which is twice its typical workload. A backlog could emerge if a quorum is not restored to the agency to issue final decisions.
Updated
Workforce
3 injured during a gunfight at a Border Patrol building in Texas
Federal and local law enforcement responded to the shooting, which occurred at a facility near the southern border
Exclusive
Management
Postal group urges new postmaster general to halt stamp price increase
The cost of stamps has increased as a corollary of former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s much-criticized plan to overhaul U.S. Postal Service operations.
Oversight
Watchdog validates whistleblower allegation that safety agency failed to inspect mines in the Pacific territories
The Labor Department inspector general previously flagged that the Mine Safety and Health Administration wasn’t performing required inspections of Pacific mines and erroneously classified them as inactive.
Management
FBI to move headquarters into Reagan Building, seemingly resolving decades-long fight
Officials did not immediately respond to questions about the timeline for the move or if it would displace the Reagan Building’s current tenants.
Workforce
Indeed: Job applications from feds level out after initial surge, but risks persist
The job search website also reported that major federal contractors are posting fewer openings, hurting opportunities for former civil servants looking for new work.
Management
HUD to move into the National Science Foundation headquarters, no current plan on where to relocate NSF employees
The Department of Housing and Urban Development had previously announced its intention to sell its current headquarters, which requires more than $500 million in maintenance repairs.
Management
With DeJoy out, postal stakeholders push for pause in criticized Delivering for America overhaul plan
Former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who reportedly was pressured into resigning, launched a 10-year reform plan called Delivering for America that members of both parties slammed for slowing service without any financial benefits.
Workforce
From HIV clinics to outer space: Awards program spotlights federal employees in the face of civil service headwinds
The Partnership for Public Service has put on the Service to America medals for more than two decades to recognize exceptional civil servants, but the event took on more resonance this year amid federal workforce cuts.
Management
Democratic leaders slam Trump effort to transfer some Education grant programs to Labor Department
The interagency agreement between Education and Labor regarding the grant programs is paused due to an injunction that deals with reductions in force.
Oversight
Trump watchdog nominees draw congressional scrutiny for political histories
Labor inspector general nominee and former Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, R-N.Y., praised President Donald Trump during his confirmation hearing, while Veterans Affairs IG nominee Cheryl Mason, who was a senior advisor to VA Secretary Doug Collins, said she wasn’t involved in any decisions at the department.
Management
Another postal union approves its collective bargaining agreement
As the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association ratified its contract, members of the American Postal Workers Union began voting on their tentative deal.
Oversight
Watchdog says VA isn’t keeping close enough tabs on retention bonuses
While department officials blamed an overhaul to human resources processes for the errors, the inspector general noted that auditors have previously warned about similar issues.
Tech
Georgetown leverages ex-fed tech experts with new fellowship program
Tech policy experts and U.S. Digital Service alums will join an inaugural program that aims to advance civic technology, while offering experience and insights to public service-focused students.
Management
House GOP clears measure to claw back billions from foreign assistance and public media programs
The Senate will take up this initial effort to codify some Department of Government Efficiency cuts after it finishes work on the budget reconciliation package.
Management
Trump’s plan to overhaul disaster agency once hurricane season is over prompts Democratic concerns
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has already experienced staffing cuts and leadership changes ahead of an “above-normal” hurricane season.
Management