Management
Appropriators ask Bush to steer clear of new user fees
Such proposals have been mainstays of Bush's budget blueprints but give appropriators headaches because they have the effect of creating unrealistic offsets for additional spending.
Defense
Federal information-sharing plan may face hurdles
Proposal would give state and local law enforcement a more direct role in exchanging information.
Pay & Benefits
Consultants advise against adding real estate fund to TSP
Lawmakers have pressured the board of the federal retirement savings program to add such a fund.
Management
GAO offers oversight advice to new Congress
Personnel reform, integration of Homeland Security agencies, and the government’s emergency response plans are among areas tagged for greater focus.
Defense
Travel groups say U.S. visitors report unfriendly reception
DHS spokesman says study attributing a decline in visitors in part to the way they're treated by government officials at airports is “flawed and self-serving.”
Tech
Budget stalemate may leave newer e-gov efforts in limbo
The next Congress, led by Democrats, could have an opportunity to undo restrictive language.
News
Prospects for passage of remaining spending bills in lame-duck session grow dim
Conservatives favor a year-long extension of the continuing resolution.
Management
EPA inspector general nominee awaits partisan panel vote
Critics question nominee's efforts to exempt the Pentagon from environmental regulations when he worked there.
Defense
DHS chief says foreign courts inhibit U.S. security efforts
International judicial activism could affect the U.S. government's use of the PATRIOT Act or "force" the United States to afford legal rights to illegal aliens, Michael Chertoff says.
Management
Most agencies get clean audits, but big problems persist
Five agencies with $507.5 billion in spending had problems so severe that auditors were unable to form an opinion on their finances.
News
GSA to solicit bids for managing wireless purchases
Effort is aimed at helping agencies get better deals on wireless services.
Defense
IG: Federal Protective Service slow to pay contractors
Inadequate oversight has contributed to payment for services not received, and has placed employees and facilities at risk, report states.
Management
Senator appeals to White House for help moving spending bills
GOP conservatives are blocking the 10 remaining bills, favoring a long-term continuing resolution free of earmarks.
Defense
Panel votes to extend Iraq reconstruction oversight office
Without the measure, which the full Senate has also passed as an add-on to a spending bill, the office is scheduled to close in October 2007.
Pay & Benefits
Choosing Dental Coverage
Factors to consider in picking from among the new federal dental plans.
Defense