Defense
Military leaders seek larger-than-planned force in Europe
The Pentagon plans to maintain only two combat brigades in Europe, but officials are rethinking that strategy.
Defense
State Department downplays report of security contractor drawdown
Agency spokeswoman says it’s “premature to speculate” about major policy changes.
Oversight
Administration says deficit at lowest level in five years
President Bush uses the news to call on Congress to exercise fiscal restraint and not raise taxes.
Defense
Federal judge puts hold on key immigration enforcement plan
Judge says until case is decided, employers cannot be held liable for failing to address “no-match” letters identifying discrepancies in workers’ records.
Pay & Benefits
Switch to new TSP account numbers prompts concern
Some participants claim they never received or have lost the numbers necessary to complete online transactions.
Defense
House panel weighs need to account for nuclear material
Lawmaker has unveiled legislation to assist the government in creating a data bank that would make it easier to trace the origins of such material.
Defense
Army seeks to balance near-term, future needs
Officials stress commitment to modernization program, while acknowledging more immediate demands for equipment repair and replacement.
Pay & Benefits
Mid-level hires rank government above previous employers
Federal jobs rated as better than survey respondents’ former work in 14 of 15 categories, including training and development.
Pay & Benefits
Pay Portions
Federal employees in the Washington, D.C., area may see the highest overall pay increase next year.
Defense
Democrats beat back GOP changes to spy bill
House Judiciary and Intelligence committees both approve legislation to overhaul the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.
News
Watchdog groups oppose more money for special counsel
Groups say the independent agency shouldn’t get an extra $2.9 million requested for a high-profile probe until a separate investigation of its chief is complete.
Oversight
GAO cites cost, schedule risks in IT projects supporting census
Three of four technology projects are either behind schedule or over budget, watchdog agency finds.
Oversight
House votes to halt debt collection outsourcing at IRS
Prospects for passage could be tougher in Senate; President Bush has threatened a veto.
Oversight
NRC reviewing application for new uranium recovery facility
The increase in applications expected as interest in nuclear power grows poses a serious management challenge for the commission.
Defense