Defense

Homeland Security proposes changes to temporary worker program

New rules aim to streamline procedures for employers, prevent fraud and protect workers.

Pay & Benefits

Opening SAMBA

A venerable health plan, once restricted to law enforcement employees, is now available to all feds and retirees.

News

Outsourcing, Lincoln-Style

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Oversight

Equal employment report shows mixed success

Federal workers file fewer complaints, but agencies pay more in damages.

Oversight

Hurricane Fay reminds managers of emergency workforce flexibilities

Direct hiring authority, premium pay for employees are among several options available to agencies during a crisis.

Defense

Air Force seeks steady ground in wake of high-profile blunders

Rebid on major tanker contract and shake-up of top leadership has set back service's agenda.

Defense

Changes to Army's modernization program come amid congressional concern

War pressures in Iraq and Afghanistan prompt the Pentagon to shift long-term strategy of Future Combat Systems.

Defense

Rule change to provide more contracting opportunities for vets

Proposed regulation would allow VA to restrict contracts for veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses.

Pay & Benefits

Silent Treatment

The presidential candidates have been mum on the campaign trail about the future of the federal workforce.

News

From Nextgov.com: Companies’ reorganizations reflect more public sector collaboration

Cisco, NetApp combine government and education units to provide integrated solutions for all sectors.

Defense

Northern Command no longer a startup organization

Post-Sept. 11 military command takes on a growing list of challenges.

Defense

Defense budget doesn't stretch as far as it used to

The Pentagon’s budget is squeezed by war, soaring fuel costs and out-of-control acquisition programs.

Oversight

GSA to bolster contracting with service-disabled veterans

Task force to help agency direct 3 percent of procurement dollars to vet-owned companies.

Oversight

House majority leader calls for expanding alternative work schedules

Maryland Democrat asks OPM for guidance on motivating agencies to adopt a four-day, 40-hour workweek by October.

Management

Kicked to the Curb?

Centralized control of federal property management threatens to leave agencies out in the cold.

News

SBA: We Helped Phelps

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Oversight

White House names Williams acting GSA administrator

Recess appointment bypasses senator's hold on nominee’s confirmation.

Defense

From Nextgov.com: Requirement to scan all inbound sea cargo sparks security concerns

GAO says 100 percent screening would strain resources, making it less effective than the current risk-based approach.

Defense

Commission finds U.S. vulnerable to electromagnetic pulse attack

High-altitude detonation of a nuclear warhead would wreck havoc on communications and other infrastructure.

Defense

Obama emphasizes VA role in caring for vets

Democratic presidential candidate favors job training for veterans, more outreach to their families.