Oversight
McCain pledges to reorganize federal workforce
GOP presidential hopeful says he'll devote "necessary resources" to making sure "government pay scales allow us to attract the finest public servants."
Defense
Coalition targets employer verification in immigration bill
Group leader says DHS would have to enroll 30,000 employers a day to meet 18-month deadline.
Defense
DHS unveils specialized infrastructure protection plans
Homeland Security chief touts unprecedented coordination between the public and private sectors in developing strategy.
Tech
Mandated 'smart cards' affect tech contractors
In October, agencies had to start issuing standard IDs for all employees and contractors to use in accessing facilities or anything connected to a government computer network.
Pay & Benefits
Lawmakers hear concerns on potential health premium increases
Witnesses disagree on effects of new consumer-directed plans on overall costs.
Defense
Forward Observer: Army in Extremis
With the Army’s budget set to be less than that of the Navy and Air Force through fiscal 2013, something has to give.
Pay & Benefits
Universities propose alternative to public service academy
Plan would create "virtual academy" out of network of existing institutions.
Defense
War supplemental talks break down over Iraq benchmarks
White House rejects Democrats’ offer to drop all domestic spending in exchange for keeping unit readiness requirements and timelines the president could waive.
Defense
Panel backs security grants, cuts modernization aid
Appropriators vote to provide about $700 million for the Coast Guard's fleet upgrade program, about $450 million less than current levels.
Defense