Oversight
House set to pass online child protection bills
Legislation would require the FTC to carry out a nationwide program to increase public awareness and provide education regarding Internet safety.
Defense
Customs, border workforce plagued with retention, morale problems
But senators learn there’s little consensus on how to address the issues.
Oversight
Congress buys time, still needs to resolve budget disputes
Continuing resolution keeps agencies open until Dec. 14, but 11 spending bills remain to be passed.
Oversight
Members of Congress also wait on FOIA requests
Now in control of Congress, Democrats have begun taking issue with policy.
Oversight
Refusing to Turn on a Dime
Recent polls show that American public opinion on Iraq is like an ocean liner, very slow to turn.
Oversight
Efforts to empower weapons program managers must begin at the top
GAO report finds that when policy does not match practice, acquisition reform fails.
Tech
Web experts weigh value of 'trustmarks' for health sites
System would let consumers click on a symbol and be taken to a page listing requirements for certification.
Oversight
EEOC braces for bumpy transition to in-house call center
As contract for privatized center runs out, agency warns of reduced service.
Defense
DHS office seeks to coordinate anti-bomb efforts
The Office of Bombing Prevention doesn’t cut red and green wires, but it tries to cut red tape for those who do.
Defense
Army, Marine Corps struggle with mandate to expand
Plans to boost size of forces by 92,000 troops over the next five years are running into trouble.
Oversight
Education hits roadblocks on bringing accountability to colleges
Education Secretary Margaret Spellings wants to extend the results-oriented approach of K-12 program to higher education.
Pay & Benefits
Federal agencies called unprepared for future wave of retirements
More than 60 percent of managers said their agencies don’t have knowledge management policies, a new survey shows.
Tech
Confusing terms prompt call for health IT glossary
Health and Human Services Department is working with alliance to make progress on creating a nationwide health information network.
Oversight
Senate passes bill to increase competition in contracting
Unanimously passed legislation would limit length of noncompetitive contracts.
Defense
Conservative House Dems delay vote on Iraq funding bill
Problems arise with money attached to target date of Dec. 15, 2008 for redeployment of troops.
Oversight