Oversight
From Nextgov.com: HHS head calls for voluntary e-health privacy guidelines
Leavitt says government mandates for guarding private medical information in personal electronic records could stymie the adoption of e-health record systems nationwide.
Defense
Budget analyst: Recent funding approach masks true costs of war
Use of supplemental budget requests makes congressional oversight more difficult, report says.
Oversight
Holder hearing, bailout might spoil bipartisan start in '09
Aides expect the Senate to expedite stimulus package, most Cabinet nominations and legislation to reauthorize the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
Oversight
Obama's HUD nominee draws praise from all sides
Advocacy groups, legislators welcome Shaun Donovan.
Pay & Benefits
TSP officials face leadership challenges
The board could experience complete turnover if nominations are not confirmed by the end of this session of Congress.
Defense
Analysts debate feasibility of Obama's Iraq withdrawal plan
The president-elect laid out a 16-month exit plan during the campaign, but it comes with a lot of caveats.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: OMB enhances investment tracking tool, but criticisms linger
Web site allows the public to monitor technology initiatives, but doesn’t provide details on why some projects end up on watch lists.
Oversight
Future of Obama's Web communications debated
The Presidential Records Act could cause a shift in the president-elect's online strategy.
Oversight
White House suggests it might use TARP funds for auto makers
The Bush administration is motivated by fear that a bankruptcy filing by at least one of the Big Three could reverberate throughout the economy.
Oversight
Self-reporting rule for contractors takes effect
Companies now must disclose certain violations to inspectors general.
Defense
Army creates organization to oversee civilian training
The Army Civilian University seeks to improve and expand employee development.
Pay & Benefits
Bush gives federal employees extra day off
President orders agencies to close Dec. 26, giving most employees a four-day weekend.
Oversight