Workforce
OPM instructs agencies to terminate union contracts potentially in violation of court orders
A smattering of agencies implicated in President Trump’s executive orders barring labor representation for two-thirds of the federal workforce had held off on formally terminating their collective bargaining agreements due to injunctions barring the edicts’ implementation.
Updated
Oversight
‘My dream job has turned into a nightmare’: Ex-feds and public service experts testify to Congress on how to rebuild government post-Trump
Some recommendations that several Democratic lawmakers and advocates brought up included overturning Schedule Policy/Career, restoring collective bargaining rights for the federal workforce and increasing congressional oversight.
Management
DHS to shut down after lawmakers, White House fail to reach agreement on funding and reforms
Most non-ICE, non-CBP employees are now facing potentially delayed paychecks.
Exclusive
Management
‘Suicide is only one option': Social Security staff newly assigned to phone duties raise concerns over training
Experts and SSA employees question wisdom of telling callers in crisis that suicide is an option.
Defense
The clearance system is mission infrastructure. Treat it like one
COMMENTARY | Clearance reform is not optional. Without sustained leadership and consistent execution, government modernization risks undermining the trusted workforce it depends on.
Management
Why federal acquisition must adapt to survive
COMMENTARY | In a world where the only constant is change, failure to adapt equals extinction.
Tech
When every second counts: government tech helps first responders’ lifesaving missions
For first responders facing unpredictable moments, tech that helps them safely navigate dangerous environments is critical.
Management
FBI gathered intelligence on reporters, religious orgs using ‘assessment’ authority, watchdog report says
The bureau also undercounts analysts’ non-compliance with assessment policies because it relies on self-reporting and infrequent audits, the sensitive GAO review adds.
Management
Public health workers are quitting over assignments to Guantánamo
The Trump administration's immigration policies have directed nearly 800 detainees to the U.S. military base in Cuba, but some officials from the U.S. Public Health Service tasked with overseeing their treatment are raising concerns.
Pay & Benefits
TSP in-plan Roth conversions: Are they right for you?
Federal employees can use a new Thrift Savings Plan tool to weigh the tax costs and retirement advantages of moving traditional balances to Roth.
Oversight
Watchdog flags gaps in Coast Guard’s handling of discrimination complaints
More than half of the incidents analyzed in the report, which looked back to fiscal 1998, occurred between fiscal 2019 and 2024.
Management
DHS officials implore lawmakers not to force their employees to endure more delayed pay during a shutdown
With the deadline nearing, leaders at the Homeland Security Department warn of long waits at airports and diminished disaster recovery if Congress fails to act.
Management
Firefighters wore gear containing 'forever chemicals.' The Forest Service knew and stayed silent for years
As early as 2021, government officials were alerted to the presence of potentially dangerous chemicals known as PFAS in pants used by wildland firefighters, according to emails obtained by ProPublica.
Workforce
Former feds turn to tailored job search resources to continue service-oriented work
Several nonprofits and universities are providing support to civil servants in search of new roles.
Workforce
CISA’s acting chief says 70 staff were reassigned to other DHS offices in last year
The cyberdefense agency in turn received some 30 employees from other DHS components, while a “handful” of CISA staffers were transferred to ICE, Madhu Gottumukkala told lawmakers.
Pay & Benefits
Roth in-plan conversions arrive for TSP, but consider tax implications first
Thrift Savings Plan participants need to carefully weigh the advantages and potential tax pratfalls of moving their balances to an after-tax investment strategy.
Pay & Benefits
Dem lawmakers propose 4.1% raise for feds in 2027
The annual reintroduction of the Federal Adjustment of Income Rates Act aims to set a baseline for negotiations around federal employee compensation for the coming year.
Workforce
Former Cabinet secretaries urge federal employees to 'keep the faith' despite threats to civil service
Janet Yellen and Gary Locke praised career civil servants for their dedication and stressed the vital role they play in keeping government running, even in challenging times.
Workforce
IRS tasks more staff without any tax experience to process tax returns
“This has the potential to be a disaster,” employees warn as the tax agency scrambles to prepare for the already underway filing season.
Tech