Management
VA Procurement and Security Clearance Processing Land on GAO’s High-Risk List
Hiring reform remains a key challenge and contributes to problems across government, the watchdog found.
Oversight
HHS Vigorously Defended Its Employees, But Senators Still Want Answers on Alleged Sexual Assault Against Immigrant Children
Request for investigation comes after newly released data show 4,500 allegations of sexual abuse against children in government care.
Nextgov
VA to Pilot Health Records System in March 2020
Lawmakers still have serious concerns about the agency’s multibillion health records overhaul.
Pay & Benefits
Treasury Suspends G Fund Investments, Retirement Programs Could Become More Generous, and More
A weekly round-up of pay and benefits news.
Management
Agriculture Department Staff Given Marching Orders for Controversial Move
Despite legislated delay, research offices prepare to relocate most employees.
Management
What Did You Learn From Your Worst Boss Ever?
There are definitely “worst boss” behaviors that come up again and again that serve as a reference point for anyone who wants to be the best boss.
Defense
We’ll Soon Learn Whether You Can Post 3D-Gun Plans Online
A proposed export-rules change has snagged over the question: is publishing such designs a boon to U.S. business or foreign terrorists?
Tech
U.S. Takes Tentative Steps Toward Opening Up Government Data
A new act requires that all nonsensitive government data be made available publicly by January 2020. But the plan could open up new privacy issues.
Oversight
Play of the Day: Hillary Clinton Is Not Running For President Again
The 2020 election will not feature the former Secretary of State.
Route Fifty
Considering a State Bank for Local Governments
Proponents say it could help with infrastructure financing, particularly for smaller jurisdictions. Bankers are skeptical.
Defense
Top NATO General: Don’t Sell F-35 To Turkey If It Buys Russian SAMs
Gen. Scaparrotti, who leads U.S. European Command, also wants more naval forces at his disposal.
Route Fifty
Counties Push for Sustainable Public Lands Payment Programs
Local and federal officials argue two funding streams they count on are part of a “social safety net” for primarily rural, Western jurisdictions.
Pay & Benefits
Lawmakers' Renewed Push for Paid Family Leave for Feds Includes More Generous Benefits
Rep. Carolyn Maloney, the bill's author, predicts this will finally be the year the reforms are implemented.
Management
House Democrats Ramp Up Pressure on White House Security Clearances
Justice Department is asked to investigate whether Trump interfered with Kushner’s case.
Oversight
Senator Takes on Budget, Pay and Hiring Reforms in Latest Version of Annual Waste Report
Lankford goes beyond the usual rundown of silly grants, suggesting ways to end shutdowns and save money through benefits changes.
Nextgov
Scammers Are Spoofing DHS Phone Numbers to Get Your Personal Info
Recipients also are being pressured for money to avoid arrest.
Management
Most Stakeholders Say They're Optimistic About Trump’s New OPM Pick
Dale Cabaniss will be tasked with implementing controversial provisions of the Trump administration's government reorganization plan.
Route Fifty
New Mexico Boosts Cap for Medical Marijuana Growers
The increase is temporary as state officials determine a permanent cap that will keep pace with growing patient enrollment.
Defense
What Will Come After a U.S. Withdrawal From Afghanistan?
The U.S. has been at war in Afghanistan since a few weeks after 9/11. Now we are negotiating a peace with the Taliban, the same insurgents who sheltered Osama bin Laden.
Management