Oversight
Junior senator becomes latest Republican to reject earmarks
Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., says though earmarks represent a small fraction of the overall budget, the process is "fundamentally flawed and lacks oversight."
Pay & Benefits
After NSPS
For many returning to the General Schedule, questions linger about where they will land in their old pay system.
Defense
Agencies seek to standardize pay and benefits for civilians overseas
Proposal would ensure employees abroad received at minimum the level of locality pay in Washington.
News
From Nextgov.com: Cloud raises diplomatic issues, top Clinton aide says
Collectively hosting applications and hardware off-site promotes the exchange of ideas, but it also raises the question of who owns the information, says State Department’s senior adviser Alec Ross.
Defense
Lawmakers propose acquisition overhaul at Defense
Procurement and financial management personnel would see new rewards and consequences for performance.
Oversight
Oversight committee OKs telework and TSP bills
Federal employees are one step closer to regular telecommuting and to being allowed to put the cash value of unused leave toward their retirement.
Oversight
Senator: Deficit panel could slow budget process
Republican argues commission will provide an excuse for Democrats not to pass a budget resolution; Democrats say they still will try to move the budget blueprint.
Pay & Benefits
TSA pushes back on unionization campaign
Agency says posting election petitions would be premature when legal questions remain.
Oversight
Legislation aims to improve presidential transitions
Senators look to formalize and build on best practices from the last transfer of power.
Defense
Lawmakers question management, progress at blast injury treatment centers
Pentagon has lagged behind in creating medical centers of excellence; goals remain largely unmet.
Defense
Growing chorus calls for federalizing building security
Watchdog agency finds contract guards allowed fake guns, knives and explosives into government facilities.
Defense
Rights groups oppose proposed biometric Social Security cards
Employers would be able to swipe the card through a machine to confirm someone's identity and immigration status.
Defense
Senators see gaps in Coast Guard's budget plan
The service would be the only military branch to experience a personnel decrease in Obama's budget request.
Management