Oversight
Panel OKs ban on contracts with felon-owned building security firms
Legislation was introduced after hearings last year revealing that one of the managers at a troubled Washington-area firm hired by the Federal Protective Service had a criminal history.
Defense
White House issues veto threat on military construction, veterans measure
If Congress cannot find offsets elsewhere for the legislation, the White House said it also would consider a veto of the remaining 11 spending bills.
Oversight
OMB government performance official to step down in September
Robert Shea administered Program Assessment Rating Tool, among other initiatives.
Oversight
GAO powers would increase under bill moved by House
Legislation would give the watchdog agency authority to pursue civil action against federal agencies and to interview federal employees under oath.
Defense
Stronger oversight of intelligence hubs encouraged
Civil liberties advocates say the rules governing state "fusion centers" are unclear, and the centers have experienced mission creep.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: Agencies on track for move to Networx
Report reviews six plans for impending transition to the federal government’s largest-ever telecommunications contract .
Oversight
Senators seek to streamline IRS tax lien system
A recent GAO report that found the government is owed $58 billion in payroll taxes fuel debate.
Oversight
Waxman joins calls urging OSC chief to resign
Government watchdog groups and three House Republicans already have asked Scott Bloch to quit.
Oversight
PTO deputy director to leave agency next month
Announcement comes as lawmakers fight to break an impasse on legislation to overhaul the patent system.
Oversight
Senator wants to put hold on GSA nominee over Sun contract
Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, has renewed charges that, as head of the agency's Federal Acquisition Service, Jim Williams helped the former administrator improperly pressure contracting officers.
Defense
Audit questions SBA awards to security giant Blackwater
Inspector general's report says the company may have misrepresented itself.
Oversight
Eye of the Storm
Many voters are taking a time-out from the presidential race. But they'll be back.
Oversight
From Nextgov.com: Appropriators worry VA isn't capitalizing on IT centralization
The central office responsible for overseeing the department's technology lacks a clear organizational structure, Senate panel reports .
Oversight
White House: Budget deficit will reach $482 billion
The projected fiscal 2009 deficit is about $70 billion more than the deficit estimated in Bush's budget proposal released in February.
Oversight
Justice Department: Former aide broke law in hiring scandal
Report says former White House liaison Monica Goodling violated federal law and department policy by letting political affiliation influence hiring for career positions.
Oversight
Lawmakers question GSA nominee over Sun Microsystems deal
Jim Williams denies charges he was involved in pressuring procurement shop into awarding contract extension.
Defense
Lawmaker aims to take up defense authorization in September
Armed Services Committee leader wants to gain support in the next week for a unanimous consent agreement limiting debate on the bill.
Oversight
Agencies urged to make better use of performance measures
Managers are collecting more information, but they aren’t using it to guide policy decisions or resource allocations, GAO reports.
Defense
GAO unsure about TSA's ability to meet security deadlines
Official says agency has yet to complete basic assessments of the technology and the additional personnel needed for comprehensive air cargo screening.
Oversight