Workforce
Telework Should Be an Option for Some Workers With Security Clearances
The reality is that many positions require a security clearance because of where the work is conducted, not the work itself.
Oversight
Is 14 Days Enough?
New studies show that the debate over how long the new coronavirus incubates – and how long it sheds after recovery – is far from settled.
Management
GovExec Daily: Contractors and the Coronavirus Guidance
Frank Konkel and Courtney Bublé join the podcast to talk about White House directive for firms contracting with the federal government.
Workforce
Workers Left out of Government and Business Response to the Coronavirus
If government and business collaborate with workers, a scholar of labor relations writes, current economic problems could get less severe, the recovery smoother and lasting prosperity more likely.
Route Fifty
States and Cities Turn to Empty Hotel Rooms to House Homeless and People Ill With Coronavirus
Hotel rooms left vacant as people stopped traveling because of the coronavirus could be used to house mildly ill patients and homeless people currently living outside or in shelters.
Management
Don’t Halt Social Distancing. Instead, Do It Right.
There are two things the United States must do to beat the coronavirus.
Management
FLRA Sets Sights on Official Time for ‘Lobbying Activities’
Critics say federal labor law specifically allows employee unions to negotiate for official time in connection with presenting the union’s views to Congress.
Oversight
Justice Department Launches Task Force to Combat Coronavirus Fraud
Other agencies have implemented similar initiatives as well.
Workforce
OPM Revises Hiring and Onboarding Policies Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
Agencies have new authorities to hire emergency staff and bring on all new workers virtually.
Nextgov
Defense Secretary Says Teleworking Could Last Months
During a virtual town hall, Mark Esper warned employees to be vigilant for phishing attempts and practice good cyber hygiene.
Oversight
The Coronavirus Testing Paradox
Administering coronavirus tests requires time and supplies that are already running out. But aggressive testing has proven to be the best way to track and isolate the disease, stopping its spread. The best path forward depends on where you are.
Oversight
COVID-19 Stimulus Must Include Oversight to Block Fraud
Fraudsters are waiting in the wings.
Workforce
Coronavirus Roundup: FEMA Launches a ‘Rumor Control’ Website, Defense Prepares for Telework ‘As Long As Necessary’
There's a lot to keep track of. Here’s today’s list of news updates and stories you may have missed.
Route Fifty
Salt Lake City Cracks Down on Large Groups Greeting Missionaries at Airport
The stricter rules came after hundreds of residents ignored social-distancing guidelines to greet missionaries returning from abroad.
Nextgov
Amazon: Pentagon Trying to ‘Gerrymander’ JEDI Corrective Action
Amazon Web Services said the Pentagon’s plan to fix the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure cloud contract is not enough.
Nextgov
GSA Warns of COVID-19 Contracting Scam and Price Gouging
After receiving reports of an imposter claiming to hold a GSA contract, officials are reminding agency buyers to verify vendor information.
Oversight
Voting by Mail Would Reduce Coronavirus Transmission but It Has Other Risks
As COVID-19 spreads, many are proposing to hold the November election by mail. Without careful preparation, though, the transition could run into logistical problems and provide opportunities for voter fraud.
Pay & Benefits
House Dems Unveil Stimulus Plan Including Paid Childcare, Mandatory Telework and Hazard Pay for Feds
Measure comes with a $2.5 trillion price tag and includes provisions to rescind Trump's efforts to weaken federal employee unions.
Defense
Esper Orders Pentagon into Stricter Health-Related Lockdown
Most of the military installations in the Washington, D.C., area have already been designated HPCON-C, the second-highest level, to protect personnel from the coronavirus.
Defense