Defense
Air Force disciplines 15 officers in nuclear mishap
Six generals, nine colonels sanctioned for role in mistaken shipment to Taiwan.
Oversight
Panel explores potential bias against minority contractors
Researcher suggests updating and fine-tuning limits on the personal net worth of business owners participating in two federal programs.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: Census pushes for $795 million for handhelds
Cost is lower than previous estimate, but bureau still faces developing and paying for fingerprinting up to 1 million workers for 2010 count .
Defense
Congress questions Homeland Security’s approach to nuclear detection
GAO, scientists: Key acquisition programs are failing to deliver on promises.
Oversight
USDA plans personnel switch at food safety agency
Bush will name Beth Johnson as acting undersecretary to replace Richard Raymond.
Oversight
Presidential campaigns and Senate urged to expedite appointments process
Faster consideration is especially critical given the country’s economic situation, good government groups say.
Pay & Benefits
Federal health premiums to rise 7 percent in 2009
Rate hike the highest since 2005; union official calls it discouraging.
Oversight
Senate leader: Saturday votes on continuing resolution expected
If the Senate approves the measure unchanged, it will go to President Bush for his signature.
Defense
House continuing resolution includes funds for National Guard, F-22
Measure also provides $72 million to compensate military personnel who have had their terms of service involuntarily extended.
Pay & Benefits
TSP Tumult
Investors antsy to make more trades should remember that the federal employee retirement plan isn’t designed for that.
Defense
From Nextgov.com: Homeland Security committee approves key federal IT legislation
Measure would require agencies to install chief information security officers.
Defense
Navy’s top officer sees lessons in shipbuilding program failures
Service needs to do a better job matching acquisitions to security threats.
Oversight
Deal clears way for bill giving IGs greater independence
House negotiators agree to drop provision limiting IGs to seven-year terms.
Pay & Benefits
House passes stopgap measure with 3.9 percent pay raise
Figure matches the hike authorized by the House for military members.
Oversight
Obama’s contracting plan met with approval, skepticism
Democratic presidential nominee vows to cut the number of contractors, reduce procurement spending by 10 percent.
Pay & Benefits