Defense
Qualifications of Bush pick to head FEMA praised at hearing
At his confirmation hearing, Acting Director David Paulison told senators he is trying to overcome the agency’s morale problem.
Defense
Lawmaker renews calls to build fence guarding border
Fence proposed by Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., would stretch 392 miles through the desert, from California to Arizona.
Defense
VA to shift up to $25 million to handle data theft inquiries
Money would come from four IT programs, one of which could take a 50 percent cut if all funds are needed.
Defense
FEMA pushes back timeline for meeting hiring target
Contingency contracts are not all in place either, agency official tells lawmakers.
Management
Lawmaker demands return of documents taken in FBI raid
Justice Department resists, stating that other means of getting information from the Louisiana congressman had been exhausted.
News
Trial of former procurement chief begins
Prosecutor alleges Safavian lied, misled officials about dealings with Abramoff; defense lawyer argues the two were simply friends.
Tech
Patent office union expresses concern over massive telework program
Agency officials say they will meet their goal of enrolling 500 employees by year’s end, but union officials are skeptical.
Management
House approves $18.4 billion Agriculture spending bill
Measure exceeds Bush’s discretionary spending request by $564 million, blocks national animal ID program until concerns are addressed.
Defense
Even backers find fault with immigration bill
Senate Democrats urged to support bill containing a guest-worker program despite reservations; House version focuses solely on border security.
News
Panel approves Bush pick to head OMB
Nomination of Rob Portman now advances to the full Senate for a vote.
Defense
FEMA says it will meet hiring goals by hurricane season
Officials say local authorities will bear more responsibility during responses to this year's storms.
Management
Army Corps delays announcing winner of contest for IT jobs
Number of positions involved has shrunk from 1,350 to 1,100 as employees await result.
News
House leader says FBI raid may warrant Supreme Court review
Weekend search of Louisiana congressman’s office continues to raise constitutional concerns.
Management
OPM floats new workforce management rules for agencies
Agency will require detailed annual reports on accomplishments and progress in managing employees.
Defense