Defense

Lawmaker says future combat systems not affordable

Congressman pledges to work with the Army to come up with a more disciplined approach to its modernization program.

Oversight

Panels' budget resolutions heading to floor

Senate Democrats spent the better part of two days fending off Republican attempts to trim spending before passing the plan.

Defense

From Nextgov.com: White House to coordinate cybersecurity efforts

Obama's senior cyber official tells a House caucus that OMB could expand its staff to conduct more oversight of agencies' security initiatives.

Defense

DHS watchdog recommends steps to improve immigration benefits processing

Homeland Security and State Department have joint responsibility for timeliness of immigration benefits.

Oversight

IG report finds holes in food-tracing system

For four of 40 retail products, investigators could not even identify facilities likely to have handled the food.

Oversight

Senate Democrats move ahead on fiscal 2010 budget resolution

Majority leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said he would not rule out using the reconciliation process if Republicans threaten to block a floor vote.

Oversight

Lawmakers weigh ending fraud-riddled HUBZone program

The Small Business Administration promises improvements after the second report of rampant abuse in less than a year.

Defense

Army increases ranks of contracting personnel, but gaps remain

Service plans to boost its acquisition workforce by 131 military employees and 347 civilian workers in fiscal 2009, officials say.

Oversight

Obama's pick for EPA deputy suddenly withdraws name

Jon Cannon says the scrutiny surrounding former foundation was a "distraction" to the agency.

Defense

Army pulls out of hearing on Future Combat Systems program

Agency spokesman says focus of hearing is too closely aligned with ongoing "predecisional" budget and acquisition discussions within Defense.

Oversight

Stimulus czar is well-prepared for new role

G. Edward DeSeve has worked with federal, state and local governments, all of which will play a role in recovery efforts.

Oversight

Postmaster defends compensation, wants help on deficits

Potter says bonus was based on his performance as the chief executive, high employee satisfaction and a reduced accident rate.

Defense

Senators call for more spending to stem border violence

Lieberman wants $380 million in emergency money for the Homeland Security Department.

Oversight

Bill would encourage more telework

Washington area representatives promote the popular work arrangement.

Oversight

House panel adds pay parity to budget resolution

Federal raises will be set during the 2010 appropriations process.

Oversight

FBI chief: Mortgage fraud caseload is overwhelming agency

Agents have more than 2,000 active mortgage fraud investigations.

Oversight

Locke confirmed as Commerce secretary

Former Washington governor Gary Locke was Obama's third pick for the spot.

Oversight

Obama: Budget and fixing the economy are 'inseparable'

Investments that spur economic growth will help cut the deficit in the long term, president says.

Defense

Lawmakers urge continued attention to Coast Guard acquisition reform

Bill would require the service to take precautions such as testing new assets for compliance with contractual and safety requirements.

Defense

From Nextgov.com: Officials criticize Defense's 'unreliable' health record system

The services' surgeon generals tell the Hill that the medical network frequently crashes and is causing a 'near mutiny' among doctors.