Defense
Democrats risk impasse over PATRIOT Act
Lawmakers might have to pass a temporary extension if the House and Senate can't agree on renewing key provisions of the law that are set to expire on Dec. 31.
Defense
Forward Observer: Another Looming Disaster
Retired officer says the all-volunteer military "has priced itself out of the market."
Pay & Benefits
Personnel agency cracks down on appointees ‘burrowing’ in
Agencies must gain OPM’s approval before converting political employees to career jobs at any level, even in nonelection years.
News
From Nextgov.com: Bill to increase oversight of IT projects gets big boost from report
GAO finds $3 billion in cost overruns for IT projects, adding support for a Senate proposal requiring agencies to post reasons for cost overruns on major projects.
Oversight
Federal employees have fewer health insurance choices this year
As Open Season begins, choices are more limited than before as several plans leave the federal program or reduce their coverage.
Oversight
Senate passes bill to provide funding for Federal Executive Boards
Legislation would codify permanent funding and require agencies to detail senior staff to run the boards.
Oversight
Officials envision broader nutrition program
Agency heads say they will work together to develop a comprehensive approach toward improving school meals and reducing child obesity.
Defense
Senate leader aims for MilCon-VA passage Tuesday
For the first time, the bill includes pre-approved appropriations for the VA's medical programs.
Defense
Former Defense acquisition chief warns against ‘global war on contractors’
A quota system for hiring or insourcing is not a good way to bolster the acquisition workforce, Jacques Gansler says.
Defense
House lawmakers seek to remove FEMA from Homeland Security
Key senators object to making the emergency response agency an independent entity.
Oversight
TSA report: Lawmaker erupted in flap over airport screening
Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, used profanity when passenger screeners insisted he go through body-imaging scanner.
Defense
Senate approves Commerce-Justice-Science spending bill, appoints conferees
The $64.9 billion legislation includes $27.38 billion for the Justice Department.
Pay & Benefits