Oversight

Pentagon’s reversal on new travel expense system is “troubling,” key lawmaker says 

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said the Pentagon’s decision to terminate a multi-million dollar contract to replace its Defense Travel System “raises broader questions about DOD’s ability to manage its finances and information technology.”

Management

Cocaine at the White House? Republicans demand answers

The White House says the matter is under investigation by the Secret Service.

Management

Resource constraints led to EPA’s failure to address critical vulnerabilities in air and radiation data

The Environmental Protection Agency cited a lack of resources and the sheer volume of critical vulnerabilities as the reasons for its inability to patch its systems under federally required timeframes. 

Workforce

Feeling alone? Try a job share

COMMENTARY | Two former State Department job-sharers reflect on their experience serving the mission of the department and each other.

Management

Republicans look to eliminate armed law enforcement at some agencies

While only a small number of employees, conservative lawmakers say the officers infringe on Americans' rights.

Pay & Benefits

OPM reminds agencies of workplace flexibilities following disasters

A memo highlighting telework, paid leave and other benefits available to feds impacted by disasters corresponds with the beginning of hurricane season and a recent typhoon in the Pacific Ocean.

Management

The U.S. banned farmers from using a brain-harming pesticide on food. Why has it slowed a global ban?

When officials from around the world gathered in Rome last fall to consider whether to move forward with a proposed global ban on chlorpyrifos, the pesticide had a surprising defender: a senior official from the EPA.

Management

The State Department’s first DEIA officer departs

They leave behind the department’s first-ever disaggregated data report on demographics, which will “help hold us accountable for doing the work that we say that we want to do.”

Tech

How some agencies used tech to decrease improper payments

Governmentwide, improper payments are up relative to fiscal year 2020. But digital tools — alongside other management tactics — enabled some agencies to find reductions.

Defense

The Pentagon will create an office to monitor users and insider threats in the wake of leaks

Review came after a junior airman was charged with posting Ukraine war documents and other secret information online.

Management

That Time acronymic management fads were all the rage

When an alphabet soup of concepts for organizational improvement swept through government. 

Management

Democrats try again to reform the vacancies act

Democrats are trying once again to reform the parameters on acting federal officials.

Management

Biden looks to swap leadership at civil service watchdog agencies

White House nominates a Trump appointee for a new role overseeing enforcement of civil service laws.

Tech

Third-party contractor software exploited in attack on HHS data

An official with the Health and Human Services Department said attackers gained access to data by exploiting a major vulnerability found in the popular MOVEit file transfer service.

Pay & Benefits

TSP funds bounce back following debt limit uncertainty

Only one of the federal government’s 401(k)-style retirement savings plan’s portfolios finished June in the red.

Oversight

As veteran disability claims soar, unaccredited coaches profit off frustration with the VA system

Austin, Texas-based VA Claims Insider says it has helped hundreds of thousands of clients. It has also touched off complaints and investigations.

Pay & Benefits

Saving for retirement in your TSP with a federal annuity: How much is enough?

Planning for retirement with a federal pension is different from planning for retirement without one.

Management

Almost but not quite: Acting commandant will face limitations in role

Gen. Eric Smith will have to juggle the Marine Corps’ top two positions when Gen. David Berger retires.