Defense
Homeland Security plans to modernize Coast Guard navigation system
After teetering on the edge of shutdown, LORAN will be upgraded as backup for Global Positioning System.
Oversight
Coalition calls for more Social Security funding and oversight
Groups criticize office closures, Bush funding request.
Defense
Los Alamos National Lab improves information security
GAO needs more data to determine whether security incidents will continue to decline.
Defense
Congressional Budget Office: Military dependence on supplementals climbing
For fiscal 2009, Pentagon has requested $72 billion in emergency spending for new equipment.
Oversight
Size Matters
If each Democratic presidential candidate holds roughly to his or her existing coalition, whose side of the party is bigger?
Oversight
Federal Protective Service woes could threaten building security
Watchdog agency says a lean budget and staff reductions at FPS could mean less secure government facilities.
Defense
Legal pros urge action against security contractors who commit crimes abroad
Panelists note sufficient jurisdiction to prosecute contractors but a lack of political will.
Defense
RAND study says U.S. lacks resources to defeat insurgencies
Report says government needs to invest billions more annually to improve counterinsurgency operations in Middle East.
Oversight
Treasury looking at where rebate checks will go
Department analysis of estimated $112 billion in rebates show largest portion would go to Calif. taxpayers.
Defense
Lawmaker to DHS: Don’t give appointees career status
The House Homeland Security chairman is worried about the department’s transition planning.
Pay & Benefits
GAO, union reach agreement on 2008 pay raises
Some agency analysts would receive a pay boost of 4.49 percent.
Oversight
Bush threatens to veto fiscal 2009 appropriations above set limit
Budget includes holding non-security spending flat, despite inflation.
Defense
Coast Guard seeks to restructure major commands
Changes would redefine senior leadership positions.
Oversight
FDA still underfunded, say lawmakers
Despite president’s latest budget boost, some believe it’s not enough for agency to fulfill its mission.
Defense