Defense

Pentagon revises gay ban enforcement policies

New regulations aim to introduce ‘a greater measure of common sense and common decency,’ says Defense secretary.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: GSA chief says agency will ‘up its game’ with technology

Administrator Martha Johnson says improving the flow of information and data, and more reliance on social media will provide better service to agencies and will be what drives growth.

Oversight

OMB, Treasury issue guidance for reducing improper payments

Agencies identified nearly $100 billion in improper payments in 2009.

Oversight

Senate sends fixes bill back to House

Adjustments to the health care reconciliation bill are minor.

Oversight

Lawmakers announce bipartisan Transparency Caucus

Group will advocate for transparency initiatives and promote legislation requiring open access to federal information.

Oversight

Roster for deficit commission is complete

Commission will present its proposals to Congress by Dec. 1; 14 of its 18 members must agree on the final package.

Oversight

Recovery Act auditors aim to strengthen contractor oversight

Tools developed to monitor stimulus spending could have long-term benefits for IGs and financial managers.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: Health care reform bill targets technology to improve medical services

Funding included for development of primary care models that integrate decision support tools and remote diagnostics for both doctors and patients.

Defense

Gates assures no more F-35 cost, schedule woes

Defense secretary says Pentagon's largest weapons system program is on track after a rocky history.

Defense

Senator seeks five IG reports on TSA nominee

Susan Collins, R-Maine, says White House has been slow to disclose information regarding allegations against Army Maj. Gen. Robert Harding.

Oversight

Defense acquisition reform panel issues final recommendations

Report calls for changes to Pentagon’s financial management and for giving acquisition workers more incentive to perform well.

Oversight

Treasury chief: Federal role in housing agencies will change

Fannie and Freddie cannot continue their existing hybrid structure, says Geithner.

Oversight

Acquisition councils create database to track contractor misdeeds

System will be a one-stop shop for information on performance and legal violations.

Oversight

State will hire contractor to supervise private embassy guards

Lawmaker and watchdog criticize plan to employ a personal services contractor to oversee employees of an embattled security company in Afghanistan.

Oversight

Agencies urged to fix technical mistakes in stimulus spending reports

New OMB guidance calls for greater focus on reviewing quality of data from recipients.

Oversight

Senate approves FAA bill but fight with House looms

The Senate’s version avoids contentious language, including a provision making it easier for FedEx workers to unionize.

Oversight

Divide and Conquer

It’s not a good time to be arguing for one-party control of the White House and Congress.

Oversight

Contractor advocates criticize administration’s ‘carry-over workforce’ plan

Groups say draft rule implementing executive order eliminates hiring flexibility for companies.

Defense

Officials outline missile defense goals

Pentagon leaders on Monday rejected abolishing the Missile Defense Agency and transferring its functions to the different armed services.

Oversight

Senate girds for fight on health care reconciliation

A key GOP challenge will focus on changes to the Cadillac tax on high-value plans included in reconciliation legislation.