Pay & Benefits
TARP staffing continues to increase
But Treasury has no long-term workforce plan for the financial bailout, GAO says.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: OMB directs agencies to review grants management systems immediately
The government’s central Web portal for processing grants is not equipped to handle influx of stimulus-related applications , says budget director.
Oversight
Obama calls for earmark overhaul but will sign omnibus
President says bill is "necessary for the ongoing functions of government."
Defense
Border agency draws fire for weapons traffic to Mexico
Mexican government says 90 percent of weapons seized from drug cartels come illegally from the United States.
Oversight
Senate OKs bill funding agencies until October
Passage of $410 billion omnibus bill prevents Congress from having to approve another continuing resolution.
Management
The Movement for Change
Let’s not forget it’s the civil service that makes “change” happen.
Oversight
Obama requests review of Bush guidelines for implementing legislation
President asks senior officials to check with the attorney general before relying on Bush's signing statements.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: IT receives slight budget increases, some cuts in omnibus bill
Senate would boost funding for food and air safety, but cut Justice's spending on financial management system and security analysis center.
Oversight
Omnibus bill halts competitive sourcing
All government agencies are prohibited from holding public-private job competitions for rest of fiscal 2009.
Defense
Lawmaker urges Navy to allow competition for littoral ship
The program has more than doubled in costs since its inception and has been delayed 18 months.
Oversight
House speaker suggests second stimulus may be needed
Unemployment rose to 8.1 percent in February as the economy lost 651,000 jobs, the Labor Department reported last week.
Oversight
Stevens’ departure opens window to overhaul Alaska native contracting
Lawmakers explore ways to put ANCs on a more level playing field with other small, disadvantaged businesses.
Pay & Benefits
Union continues campaign against career intern program
The hiring authority undermines veterans preference and limits opportunities for promotions, NTEU President Colleen Kelley argues.
Oversight