Oversight
Republican argues Democrats have abdicated government oversight functions
Report from ranking member of House panel finds hearings and requests for information are down since Obama took office.
Defense
Appeal rights of feds in lower-level security jobs called into question
The Merit Systems Protection Board should review firings, demotions and other adverse actions against employees in noncritical sensitive positions, union officials say.
Defense
More contractors than troops killed during past year in Iraq and Afghanistan
When contractors are counted, total U.S. fatalities in those wars exceeds 7,500 since 2001.
Oversight
Bill unfurled to require all-American government flags
Flags purchased for government use would have to be made "from articles, materials or supplies entirely grown, produced, or manufactured in the United States."
Oversight
Budget panel might vote early on OMB nominee
Committee leader is asking members to waive a rule that requires 48 hours' notice for a vote.
Defense
Officials warn of more terrorist threats within U.S.
"Homegrown" terrorism is of growing concern, witnesses and lawmakers agree during a Senate hearing.
Defense
Immigration advocates huddle after setback, might push stand-alone bill
Groups will meet with top Democrats on Thursday to discuss legislative strategy for creating a path to citizenship for young illegal immigrants.
Oversight
Senate might have to go first on continuing resolution
The House traditionally considers spending legislation first, but House Democratic leaders don't want to risk approving a CR that the Senate might not be able to pass.
Pay & Benefits
Burning Question: Should the office be fun?
Where do you stand on workplace wackiness?
Defense
National Guard and reserves need more resources, study finds
Unstable funding, equipment shortfalls, poor personnel management system and war are taking a toll on reservists.
Pay & Benefits
Federal pay called into question -- again
Think tank panelists say compensation for government employees is too generous.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: Lack of time and money threatens data center consolidation
Scarcity of upfront funding and overly ambitious deadlines will make it challenging for agencies to meet mandate, market analysts find.
Defense
Senate bill aims to reform Federal Protective Service
Bipartisan legislation would increase staffing and establish training requirements for armed guards.
Defense
Democrats lose cloture vote on Defense policy bill
Move will effectively delay until after the midterm elections debate on hot-button issues such as repealing the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
Defense
Copter crash makes this year the deadliest in Afghan war
Western death toll through the first 10 months of 2010 now stands at 529, exceeding last year's toll of 521.
Oversight