Nextgov
USDA Saved Millions So Far Due to Centers of Excellence
The Agriculture Department has avoided $26 million in spending due to the first phase of its modernization effort.
Route Fifty
Poll: Rural Americans Optimistic About the Future
The rosy outlook comes despite concerns over local economies and health-care costs.
Route Fifty
DOJ Slowly Releasing 2017 Public Safety Funds to ‘Sanctuary Cities’
Even though some localities are just now receiving their Byrne JAG grants, the battle for 2018 awards is well underway.
Nextgov
Microsoft, Amazon CEOs Stand By Defense Work After Google Bails on JEDI
The leaders of two contenders for the Pentagon’s JEDI cloud contract sounded off on Google’s decision not to bid.
Route Fifty
U.S. Supreme Court Rejects Appeal of California Ruling on Lead Paint Remediation
A coalition of cities and counties sued manufacturers under the state’s “public nuisance” law. They have won a $400 million fund to help treat housing.
Route Fifty
Flu Season May Last Longer in Large Urban Areas, Study Says
But smaller cities can have more intense outbreaks of the flu, researchers found.
Nextgov
No Easy Fix for Silicon Valley Angst About Government Contracts
CBP’s acquisitions chief urges patience, understanding over protests against border contracts.
Nextgov
FBI Drops Full and Open Competition for $5 Billion IT Recompete
The bureau will turn to GSA’s schedules to fill out its IT Supplies and Support Services contract.
Nextgov
IARPA Wants to Identify Criminals From Their Skin Cells
The goal isn’t to replace DNA analysis but rather add another technology to forensic analysts’ toolbox.
Route Fifty
As Sears Declares Bankruptcy, Sites of Shuttered Stores Present Economic Development Challenges
STATE AND LOCAL ROUNDUP | Minnesota data breach … Fresno officials scoff at proposed e-scooter fines … and N.Y.C. pension funds warm up to de Blasio divestment plan.
Route Fifty
How a Midsize U.S. City Is Preparing to Host One of the World’s Largest Sporting Events
The IAAF track-and-field world championships are still three years away. Local officials in Eugene, Oregon may be “slightly nervous” but are embracing an “opportunity to really shine.”
Route Fifty
Outside Utility Crews Ready to Help Restore Water Service in Florida, Georgia
After storms, rural water workers from other states help restore service. Following Hurricane Michael, many were awaiting word that they could access damaged areas.
Nextgov
GSA’s Tech Teams Increasingly Important to Administration’s Tech Priorities
18F and the Technology Transformation Services face a more certain future than just two years ago.
Nextgov
Agencies Can’t Dine and Dash on Technology Modernization Fund, Official Says
Awards are an advance, not a grant, and the program office has ways to make sure the fund stays solvent.
News
Complaints After the Presidential Emergency Alert: Hatch Act Confusion, Technical Troubles and More
The FCC received dozens of complaints after the Oct. 3 message was sent to Americans' phones.
Route Fifty
Washington Supreme Court Strikes Down Death Penalty
The justices found racial bias in the imposition of capital punishment by juries.
Nextgov
DHS Funds Airport Navigation App that Guides You from Check-in to Gate
It also allows federal agencies to send messages to passengers in real time.
News
Hope for Reforming Government in Polarized Times?
Margaret Weichert says she values the advice of former OMB deputy directors for management.
Nextgov
Firing Isn’t the Only Option for Holding Leaders Accountable for Cyber Lapses, Federal CISO Says
The administration will likely be discreet about disciplinary actions.
Route Fifty