Defense
Katrina reconstruction effort lacks long-term strategy
Project is at a “critical turning point," GAO official says; Louisiana senator takes hard line on funds for rebuilding levees.
Management
Senate panel backs stiff penalties for war profiteering
Measure would allow prison sentences of up to 20 years and fines of $1 million or twice the gross profits from the scheme.
Tech
Agencies’ cybersecurity scores on the rise
Eight still fail annual review; lawmaker exploring ways to provide incentives for good grades.
Tech
IRS seeks to guide taxpayers to Internet and phone help
Plan would aim to preserve access to face-to-face consultations, but expand use of less costly services.
Management
Smithsonian problems include $2.5 billion maintenance, repair list
High-profile members of the institution's oversight board may not be able to put in the necessary time and attention, senator says.
Management
Agencies launch air traffic training for disabled veterans
Program partly aimed at offsetting anticipated retirements at the FAA.
Management
Political e-mails trigger surge in Hatch Act complaints
The Office of Special Counsel recorded 299 complaints last year -- an all-time high for the independent investigative agency.
Defense
Fate of Treasury contracting shop remains in limbo
Contractors and customers express concern over service continuity; Army medical centers among FedSource customers.
Management
Walking the Talk
Getting first responders on the same wavelength requires more than just new technology.
Management
NASA chief asks lawmakers for more workforce flexibilities
Agency would like to be able to offer permanent employees incentives to switch to temporary status.
Tech
Management of tax fraud detection system improves
Regular meetings with stakeholders and contractors help ensure tasks are on schedule and risks are addressed, IG finds.
Defense
Lawmaker seeks to set up Defense-industry procurement board
Panel would find ways to identify critical shortfalls in military equipment and streamline the purchase of needed gear.
Management
Dems support expansion of GAO, but question affordability
Head of the audit agency says budget boost would help with heavier workload and allow projects beyond issuing reports.
Management
Reported drop in free tax e-filings revives criticisms
Though participation in program is decreasing, the IRS reports that complaints are down to one per every 2,193 returns.
Management
Union leader advocates more resources for IRS, better use
Agency budget contains legislative proposals aimed at taking a $29 billion bite into the tax gap over 10 years.
Management
Lawmakers aim to settle on budget blueprint soon
House and Senate are close on discretionary spending, with a likely outcome to be overall spending in the $20 billion range above the White House request.
Tech
Senator probes NASA software procurement
Failure to re-bid a $5.2 million contract has a high-ranking finance panel member questioning the agency's acquisition practices.
Management
TSP board awards contract for forms processing
In a $16 million deal, SI International will help process paper transactions faster.
Management
Industry fights measure to bar contractors for immigration violations
Senate-passed spending bill contains language that would penalize contractors breaking immigration laws for up to 10 years.
Management