Defense
DHS on track to use radiation detectors at most U.S. ports
Deployment will actually exceed the mandate of the recently approved $400 million Safe Port Act, official says.
Defense
Survey signals low morale among DHS agriculture specialists
“Nothing is going well” is second most-frequent reply to a query on what’s good about the job.
Defense
Report: Biometric visitor tracking won't work at land exits
Implementation would be costly, require new infrastructure and lead to traffic backups.
Tech
DHS privacy office steps up scrutiny of technology projects
Critics say report to Congress covering two years of activity is short on details, seek commitment from recently arrived privacy chief.
Management
Anti-discrimination activists seek new federal workplace law
Activists say OPM regulations have subverted the intent of a 2002 law meant to stiffen penalties for discrimination.
Pay & Benefits
Part Time? Not This Time
President Bush’s proposal to end the penalty for switching to part-time work gets lost in the shuffle.
News
New judiciary panel leader promises more oversight, privacy protection
Vermont Democrat slated to lead Senate committee says his agenda is one of "restoration, repair and renewal."
Management
Yearlong funding measure won’t rely on current formula
Joint House-Senate group will set spending levels; agencies will likely have an opportunity to appeal for more money.
Defense
Coast Guard chief stresses importance of focusing on employees
Thad Allen cites plans for possible joint-duty requirements across Homeland Security agencies.
Management
Key senator urges Bush to use his sway on fiscal issues
A first step will be to institute "pay/go" requirements that new entitlement programs or tax cuts be offset, incoming budget panel leader says.
Defense
European officials seek answers on use of passenger data
Agreement with the EU seeks deletion of passenger data within four years; DHS screening system can keep information for up to 40 years.
Defense
Bill creating HHS bioterror research agency on Bush’s desk
Measure would reduce the Homeland Security Department’s role in the event of a bioterror attack.
Tech
Proponent of IT centralization declares victory at the VA
Employees involved in application development will be sent to work under the CIO Monday, and permanently placed there in April.
News
Justice Scalia warns against 'bureaucrat' judges
Supreme Court justice says low pay discourages successful lawyers from seeking judgeships, and favors those who spend their careers working in the judicial system.
Management