Defense
Obama Taunts Republican Claims About the Islamic State Threat
In speech, Obama says the militants "do not threaten our national existence."
Management
What's Next for the National Institutes of Health After Its Big Funding Boost?
Congress rallied around the agency this year.
Defense
Iran Releases 10 American Sailors and Their Boats
Iran freed them a day after they inadvertently crossed into Iranian territorial waters.
Oversight
Play of the Day: The Oregon Occupiers Need More Supplies
When you're battling federal government overreach, french vanilla coffee creamer is key.
Nextgov
DHS Cyber Czar, Tech Titans Tell Commerce to Rethink Hacking Arms Control
Reached in 2013, the Wassenaar Arrangement bans multinational firms and cyber vendors from transmitting information about "intrusion software" across borders without first obtaining a license.
Management
Compensation for U.S. Iran Hostages Now Rests with Justice Department
Surprise language in omnibus spending bill requires appointment of a special master.
San José’s Innovation Agenda Will Hinge on the Internet of Things
Starfish, a new smart city network, will be demonstrated in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Management
Obama Asks for Political Reforms ‘To Reflect Our Better Selves’
President’s final State of the Union soft-pedals legislative specifics for long-term vision, calls for “rational, constructive debates.”
News
State of the Union Highlights: Bureaucracy, Big Government and Benefits
Live updates on what the president had to say about government management and federal employees.
Nextgov
Lawmakers Blast $1.3 Billion Price Tag for VA’s ‘Agile’ Paperless Claims System
VA still can’t say how much the system will end up costing.
Management
Upskirt Photos and Twerking: Sexual Misconduct at the National Park Service
IG cites Grand Canyon regional unit for covering up pervasive abuse.
California Budget Proposal Is ‘Prudent and Bodes Well for Continued Fiscal Stability’
Gov. Jerry Brown unveiled his spending plan for the Golden State last week, stressing the need for fiscal moderation, despite continued economic growth.
Pay & Benefits
House Panel Delays Admin Leave Reform Amid Democratic Concerns
Democrats agree forced paid leave is problematic, but want to ensure due process for feds.
Management
Abuse Survivors on the Job: Signs, Symptoms and How to Help
It's not as uncommon as you might think.
Management
Panel Approves Bill Making It Easier to Suspend and Fire Senior Execs
Committee also advances legislation extending the probationary period for new feds from one to two years.
Management
Criminal Justice Reform Could Stall Over This Dispute
A disagreement between a House Republican and the Obama administration creates a challenge.
Management
How the United States Government Underestimated the Extent of Income Inequality
Social Security is underfunded today because policymakers didn’t foresee just how rich today’s rich would be.
Management