Oversight

EPA: Video takedown order was about ethics, not content

Employees are not allowed to use their position and work at EPA to lend credibility to their personal opinions, officials say.

Oversight

Panel to look into bipartisan debt-reduction commissions

The normal budget process "cannot deal with a debt burden of this proportion," key senator says.

Oversight

Foregone Conclusion

Last week's elections confirmed what most people already knew: the Democrats have problems.

Oversight

HHS use of funds for health reform campaign falls into question

Form letter could be considered propaganda designed to influence legislation, analysts find.

Oversight

GSA aims to improve procurement process through social media

A new initiative invites suggestions to improve federal acquisitions online.

Defense

Senate is moving on Military Construction-VA measure

The total funding in the measure is $7.1 billion over the $126.8 billion provided in fiscal 2009.

Oversight

Federal employees have fewer health insurance choices this year

As Open Season begins, choices are more limited than before as several plans leave the federal program or reduce their coverage.

Oversight

Senate passes bill to provide funding for Federal Executive Boards

Legislation would codify permanent funding and require agencies to detail senior staff to run the boards.

Oversight

Officials envision broader nutrition program

Agency heads say they will work together to develop a comprehensive approach toward improving school meals and reducing child obesity.

Defense

Senate leader aims for MilCon-VA passage Tuesday

For the first time, the bill includes pre-approved appropriations for the VA's medical programs.

Defense

Former Defense acquisition chief warns against ‘global war on contractors’

A quota system for hiring or insourcing is not a good way to bolster the acquisition workforce, Jacques Gansler says.

Oversight

TSA report: Lawmaker erupted in flap over airport screening

Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, used profanity when passenger screeners insisted he go through body-imaging scanner.

Defense

Senate approves Commerce-Justice-Science spending bill, appoints conferees

The $64.9 billion legislation includes $27.38 billion for the Justice Department.

Oversight

House votes on chemical bill set for Friday

The bill would reauthorize and expand the Homeland Security Department's ability to regulate security at chemical facilities.

Oversight

From Nextgov.com: Defense: Open source software is more secure, yes more, than commercial code

Publicly available code has fewer security holes because more programmers work on the free programs than the number writing proprietary programs for commercial firms.

Oversight

Managers discourage agencies from solo IT shopping

Contracting officers can save time and money by taking advantage of governmentwide arrangements, procurement conference panelists say.

Oversight

Postal Service eyes options beyond layoffs and buyouts

Agency is looking at adding retail and other services to boost revenue.

Defense

Gates-Holder letter might provide political cover for senators

The Cabinet secretaries oppose an appropriations bill amendment that would block funds for trying suspected terrorists in federal courts.

Oversight

Acting GSA chief says agency is gaining clout

Recovery Act implementation and green government efforts have put GSA at the forefront of the White House’s agenda.

Oversight

New alliance hopes to spur new talent in procurement field

Strategic Partnership on Acquisition Recruitment Coalition to focus outreach on university students.