Oversight
Depressed Old Party
Republicans are going through a hard time, but will need to tough it out until the general election.
Defense
State Department drops ban on HIV-positive diplomats
Change was made after consultation with medical experts and in response to a lawsuit.
Defense
Security clearance process still a paperwork exercise
Technology association official says only a Web-based system will reduce backlog of needed clearances.
Oversight
Surplus federal computers not reaching rural towns
Advocates push for passage of a bill that would direct federal surplus property to communities in need.
Tech
Government still suffers from information insecurity
Ensuring only authorized users have access to data is among the top challenges facing agencies, says GAO.
Defense
Air Force envisions multiyear contract for new tankers
The multiyear buy would not immediately affect Air Force budgets.
Defense
Chairman delays bill to prevent debt collection from service members killed in action
Under current law, the VA is required to contact family of deceased to collect debt.
Defense
DHS abandons proposed labor relations system
Omnibus spending measure effectively prevented department from implementing new rules.
Defense
DHS and Labor want to revamp program for hiring temporary farm workers
More than half of the 1.2 million agricultural laborers are undocumented immigrants.
Defense
Senators grill Chertoff on grants, FEMA trailers and more
Committee members also express concerns about program to ensure a smooth transition to the next administration.
Defense
Air Force budget wish list exceeds other services
Military identifies nearly $30 billion worth of equipment and projects that didn't make the cut in the president's budget request.
Pay & Benefits
SEC scales back pay-for-performance ambitions
Agency vows to move more cautiously before linking employees' pay to reviews.
Oversight
GAO chief announces resignation
David Walker says he'll leave March 12 to head new foundation.
Defense
Marine commander warns of stress on forces, families
Gen. James T. Conway said many Marines spend just seven months at home for every seven months in combat.
Oversight
Federal officials strategize on boosting acquisition workforce
Internships and new training programs are tools agencies hope will attract and retain contracting employees.
Defense