Defense
From Nextgov.com: DHS to collect biometric data from green card holders
New rule that expands US VISIT program requires fingerprints and digital photos from noncitizens who are permanent residents .
Oversight
OPM suspends executive promotion boards
Move will give incoming Obama administration agency heads a say in who advances to the Senior Executive Service.
Oversight
Obama's Senate background could speed confirmation process
The president-elect is versed in the rules of the chamber and has developed relationships there.
Oversight
Obama names science and technology team
President-elect says he will promote "free and open inquiry" and listen to his advisers, even when they are presenting "inconvenient" findings.
Tech
From Nextgov.com: SEC mandates open standard for financial records
Requiring public companies to file documents in XBRL could improve oversight of financial markets and change the way stocks are analyzed, investment professionals say.
Oversight
Chamber report proposes fixes to patent review process
Re-establishing the Patent and Trademark Office as a government corporation is among the recommendations.
Oversight
Immigrant, union groups see Labor nominee as ally
Business representatives are wary of Rep. Hilda Solis' support of priorities like "card check" legislation to make it easier to form a union, but said immigration could be an area of common ground.
Oversight
Holidays give no rest for administration job-seekers
Obama wants lower-level officials in place as early as possible after Jan. 20.
Defense
Air Force names one-star general to lead provisional nuclear command
Service officials are undecided on final location and leader for Global Strike Command when it becomes permanent in late 2009.
Oversight
Safavian found guilty in retrial
Former top procurement official faced charges for lying about his relationship with lobbyist Jack Abramoff.
Pay & Benefits
Bush issues order implementing 3.9 percent pay raise
Employees will receive a 2.9 percent boost in basic pay, with the rest of the increase devoted to locality pay.
Pay & Benefits
Holiday Wishes
A wish list of changes that would improve retirement prospects for federal employees.
Tech
From Nextgov.com: GSA announces selections for Alliant Small Business
Seventy-two companies will have a chance to offer IT services ; larger Alliant award still expected in March.
Oversight