Defense
Administration replaces beleaguered director of Defense agency
April Stephenson, head of the Defense Contract Audit Agency, has been reassigned to the Pentagon comptroller’s office.
News
From Nextgov.com: VA to deploy automated tool to speed up vets' education benefits
Secretary Eric Shinseki also says developing IT systems for the Veterans Benefits Administration is a top priority.
Pay & Benefits
Prospects for higher federal raise remain murky
Many feel pay parity is unlikely, given the ailing economy and a military hike that seems out of reach for civilian agencies.
Oversight
OMB contracting guidance expected to be released this week
Memo will cover acquisition workforce and outsourcing, among other procurement issues.
News
Classes, service projects offer personal growth opportunities
Though these programs aren’t officially part of the governmentwide push for work-life balance, they are flourishing at a number of agencies.
Oversight
Draft climate change bill puts USDA in lead on emissions
Proposal would require the Agriculture secretary and EPA administrator to develop a carbon credit program within one year of enactment.
Oversight
Congress in no rush to cut mail delivery
One of the stumbling blocks is disagreement over how much money the Postal Service would save by stopping Saturday service.
Pay & Benefits
Cooking classes teach feds the ingredients of a strong immune system
A popular how-to series helps employees prepare foods that will prevent cancer and other diseases such as diabetes.
Defense
Forward Observer: Atonement
Congressman's book will outline his regrets about voting to let former President George W. Bush invade Iraq.
Tech
Competing for IT Skills
Hiring federal IT workers could become slightly more competitive with the private sector in 2010, a new poll suggests.
Defense
NSPS repeal could lead to new performance management system, observers say
Defense authorization legislation calls on Pentagon and OPM to work together on developing an alternative personnel system.
News
From Nextgov.com: DHS information-sharing initiative stalls due to privacy concerns
Lawmakers again place strings on funding for project to give law enforcement and intelligence agencies access to immigration records.
Defense
Coast Guard authorization bill clears House
Legislation includes a provision allowing crew members of U.S. ships to defend themselves against pirates without worrying about legal liability.
Pay & Benefits
FEHBP open season nears as Congress considers major health care reform
Click here for our guide to Open Season 2009.
Oversight