Defense
FEMA workers want to shift focus away from post-Katrina reports
Employees urge independence from DHS, and try to concentrate on preparing for the upcoming hurricane season.
Management
DoD workers seek union status on eve of personnel changes
If request is granted, 100 workers poised to enter the National Security Personnel System Sunday could get a deferment.
Defense
CIA tightens limits on former employees’ ability to speak out
New policy requires publications of ex-employees turned contractors to be screened for political content as well as classified material.
Management
Proposed anti-discrimination rule draws fire
OPM draft rules would count verbal reprimands for discrimination as a form of discipline.
Defense
Senators aim to kill FEMA, add disaster reservists
Committee report backs creation of new agency within Homeland Security to coordinate federal emergency response.
Management
Senate panel hits NASA over timing gap on space station
Facility could be left neglected in years between its completion and the arrival of a new exploration vehicle, lawmaker says.
Defense
Initial probe finds panel free of improper Cunningham dealings
Investigators will review all of Cunningham's contacts with the House Armed Services Committee over nearly 15 years in Congress.
Defense
DHS agencies fight uphill battle against counterfeiting
Senators, private sector officials say illegitimate commerce has taken a back seat to immigration enforcement, anti-terror programs.
Management
Postal Service asked to hold off on rate increase
House Government Reform Committee chairman says it would be wise to wait until postal reform legislation is closer to completion.
Management
Bush names executive at Illinois firm to head SBA
Steven Preston is executive vice president of the $3.6 billion ServiceMaster Co.
Management
Iraq contractor admits to bribery and fraud
Inspector general’s office says more arrests to follow.
Defense
Head of visitor tracking program wants global ID system
Proposed system would require the cooperation of several Homeland Security agencies, including CBP, CIS and TSA.
Management
OMB touts savings potential of ‘best value’ contracting
Critics argue strategy is subjective and places further strain on limited in-house appeal rights.
Defense
Immigration enforcement agency seeks funding, staff boost
Plan is short on details about staffing levels and funding requirements necessary for specific enforcement initiatives.
Management
Reliance on supplemental funding draws bipartisan attack
Lawmakers say administration’s method of paying for wars and other emergency needs makes it difficult to account for the true costs.
Defense
FEMA acquisitions chief pushes recruiting program
Deidre Lee also backs calls for more contingency contracts to prepare in advance for disasters.
Management
Judge sets date to review Safavian, Abramoff e-mails
Lawyers will argue next week on admissibility of messages on a range of personal and business topics, from racquetball to contracting.
Management
Swank reception honors notable federal executives
Winners of Presidential Rank Award recognized for career achievements.
Management