Defense
Pentagon’s Fine-Tuned Transgender Policy Draws Flak
Though not a ban, Trump approach denies accommodations for "gender dysphoria."
Pay & Benefits
Weighing the Social Security Benefit Decision
When to start collecting benefits depends on your individual circumstances.
Nextgov
What DOD Plans To Do With $9.6 Billion in Cyber Funding
Defense Department cyber leaders explained the 2020 budget request and offered insight into how U.S. Cyber Command is using its new acquisition authority.
Management
Chemical Board Settles with Managing Director After Three-Year Paid Leave
The government spent some $485,700 just to cover David Horowitz’ salary in a case that highlighted the inefficiencies of federal personnel management.
Management
Bill Would Ban Federal Contractors From Asking About Criminal History Early in Job Application Process
Legislation would codify delaying when federal hiring officials inquire about candidates’ criminal records, and apply the requirement to contractors as well.
Management
Boeing Has ‘Severe Situation’ After Parts Left in Tankers, Says Top USAF Buyer
Will Roper’s harsh assessment comes amid the unrelated grounding of company’s popular 737 Max jetliner.
Oversight
The Senate Could Embarrass Trump Over His National Emergency
A sufficient number of Republicans are poised to band with the Democrats in opposition to the president’s border-wall funding.
Oversight
Play of the Day: A New Conspiracy Theory In Washington
Donald Trump denied a recent theory that his wife has a body double.
Defense
Top Navy Admiral Warns of Cyber Attacks Against Brass
CNO says that’s why the service stopped publishing promotion lists in October.
Federal Court Deals Airbnb a Blow in its Fight Against Local Regulations
“This case is hugely significant,” says one legal scholar.
Transportation Officials Seek Flexible Federal Infrastructure Funding
Some states and localities have struggled to curb congestion because of the limited funding available for pedestrian, bicycle and transit infrastructure.
Nextgov
CYBERCOM Seeks Troops Who Can Unleash Artificial Intelligence
AI won’t solve the military’s shortage of cyber professionals but can act as a force multiplier to ease the strain.
Oversight
FOIA Requests Are Up In Trump Era, But Parties Disagree on Whether That’s Good
Leaders at Interior Department and EPA attract the most requests.
The Gig Economy is Actually Pretty Tiny
An analysis from the Economic Policy Institute found that workers who sourced jobs through apps like Uber and Lyft comprised just a minuscule fraction of the overall workforce.
Nextgov
Labor Department Creates Chief Data Officer Position
In addition to a CDO, the agency will establish a data board—both in accordance with the OPEN Government Data Act.
Management
GSA Chief Declines to Disclose What She Discussed With Trump Regarding FBI HQ
Administrator says she has "no knowledge" of Trump exerting undue influence on decision making.
Pay & Benefits
Lawmakers Renew Push for Contractor Back Pay, An Expansion of Veterans’ Benefits and More
A weekly round-up of pay and benefits news.
Management
Pentagon Forced to Go to Trial on Withheld FOIA Documents
Small business group has long sought subcontractor data from Sikorsky.
Oversight