Defense
Defense official: Plans for federal crisis response still needed
Pentagon office will seek legislative change to provide Defense with a sustained funding source for having National Guard troops carry out domestic missions.
Defense
National Guard chief says border deployments on track
There are now 3,600 troops along the border to assist CBP agents, with as many as 6,000 to be deployed by August.
Defense
Panel agrees OMB needs official dedicated to acquisition workforce
Knotty questions on funding for training, contractor roles and commercial practices remain ahead as panel wraps up work.
Pay & Benefits
Senators take new stab at redefining law officer jobs
Expanding the definition of federal law enforcement officer would give more employees early retirement option.
Tech
Failure of digital detection system allows millions in tax fraud
The IRS said it has paid up to $300 million in fraudulent claims for the 2006 season because a new detection system wasn't in place in time.
Tech
Technology cited as key to detection of immigration fraud
Complex reform bill passed by Senate would make system more vulnerable to abuse, critics say.
Tech
OMB steps up data security reporting requirements
Agencies now must report suspected, as well as confirmed, incidents that put personal information at risk.
Defense
Lawmakers remind Rumsfeld of Defense dress policy
Rule adopted last October bars wearing of military uniforms at political events.
Defense
Senate bolsters northern border patrols, OKs spending bill
Final Senate version of DHS appropriations bill would provide about $32.8 billion in discretionary funds.
Pay & Benefits
Are You Ready?
A report from the retirement planning session at this year’s Excellence in Government conference.
Defense
Senior Defense official knocks legislative contracting provision
Language meant to curb soaring costs of defense programs could have the opposite effect, former Navy acquisition executive says.
Tech
Report critical of administration’s info-sharing efforts
Policies need to be established to ensure officials feel that they can safely share information without negative repercussions on their careers, report says.
Tech
Democratic senators criticize administration's cybersecurity efforts
Failure to fill Cabinet-level cybersecurity post at the Homeland Security Department in a timely manner is reckless, senator says.
Management
EEOC extends customer service center pilot project
Lawmakers had requested that the commission put off a vote on whether to make the center permanent, pending further review.
Management
Protest filed over Army Corps decision to keep IT work in-house
Challenge relates to alleged flaws in the selection process; decision expected in early August.
Management
Lawmaker proposes panel to study employee appeals backlog
Managers’ groups support idea but unions say commission would be stacked with political appointees.
Defense
Panelists push fully automated security clearance processing
Delays costly to government as well as industry, Rep. Tom Davis, R-Va., says.
Tech