Pay & Benefits
Personnel pick remains flexible on pay-for-performance systems
Nominee John Berry says he would consider any compensation structure that is effective and maintains merit principles.
Defense
From Nextgov.com: White House to coordinate cybersecurity efforts
Obama's senior cyber official tells a House caucus that OMB could expand its staff to conduct more oversight of agencies' security initiatives.
Defense
DHS watchdog recommends steps to improve immigration benefits processing
Homeland Security and State Department have joint responsibility for timeliness of immigration benefits.
Oversight
IG report finds holes in food-tracing system
For four of 40 retail products, investigators could not even identify facilities likely to have handled the food.
Oversight
Senate Democrats move ahead on fiscal 2010 budget resolution
Majority leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said he would not rule out using the reconciliation process if Republicans threaten to block a floor vote.
Oversight
Lawmakers weigh ending fraud-riddled HUBZone program
The Small Business Administration promises improvements after the second report of rampant abuse in less than a year.
Defense
Army increases ranks of contracting personnel, but gaps remain
Service plans to boost its acquisition workforce by 131 military employees and 347 civilian workers in fiscal 2009, officials say.
Oversight
Obama's pick for EPA deputy suddenly withdraws name
Jon Cannon says the scrutiny surrounding former foundation was a "distraction" to the agency.
Defense
Army pulls out of hearing on Future Combat Systems program
Agency spokesman says focus of hearing is too closely aligned with ongoing "predecisional" budget and acquisition discussions within Defense.
Pay & Benefits
Pay Day
Federal employees have strong advocates in Congress and in the Obama administration for pay and benefits issues.
News
From Nextgov.com: Bar is raised for justifying best value contracts
A recent bid protest ruling signals agencies must be more thorough in documenting awards based on technical expertise rather than price.
Oversight
Stimulus czar is well-prepared for new role
G. Edward DeSeve has worked with federal, state and local governments, all of which will play a role in recovery efforts.
Oversight
Postmaster defends compensation, wants help on deficits
Potter says bonus was based on his performance as the chief executive, high employee satisfaction and a reduced accident rate.
Defense
Senators call for more spending to stem border violence
Lieberman wants $380 million in emergency money for the Homeland Security Department.
Oversight