Oversight
Senate aims to avoid catch-all spending bill
Republicans would relish omnibus measure as evidence the Democrats have gone back on their pledge of open government.
Oversight
USDA agency launches inquiry into lobbying e-mail
Officials say they are looking into complaints that employees violated prohibitions against political activity by encouraging co-workers to oppose legislation.
Oversight
Lawmakers back ousted hurricane center chief
Two Democrats seek to reinstate Bill Proenza to the position he held before being forced out as the nation's chief hurricane forecaster.
Oversight
Report finds gaps in compliance with financial management law
About 70 percent of agencies are failing to meet at least one requirement, auditors say.
Oversight
Busy Intersection
In as many as four states, candidates may have to choose between running for the Senate and angling for a spot on their party's national ticket.
Oversight
Bill authorizing Army Corps water projects hits roadblock
Senator opposes conference report, arguing it doesn’t do enough to change how projects are reviewed and approved.
Oversight
Watchdog gives mixed report on FBI case management project
Gaps in guidance and oversight could result in slower-than-anticipated progress on modernization, GAO says.
Oversight
DHS says spending provision could hurt small business contracting
Language requiring full and open competition for all contracts could prevent the designation of work for small firms, official says.
Oversight
House committee votes to give IGs fixed terms
Bill is aimed at better protecting the watchdogs from retaliation for unfavorable audits.
Defense
Panel hears estimates, pleas for long-term Gulf Coast aid
Some lawmakers question whether federal officials are leaning on states hard enough to curb potential waste, fraud or abuse in recovery programs.
Oversight
With much acrimony, House moves on Agriculture measure
Republicans upset there wasn’t more room for debate; partisan atmosphere threatens to spread into other work on spending bills.
Oversight
Panel OKs emergency funds for recovery from bridge collapse
Bill authorizes $250 million in relief funds for the state of Minnesota to use in the repairs of the Interstate-35W bridge.
Oversight
FDA to avoid layoff notices by dipping into reserves
Agency chief defends deputy for sending out an officewide e-mail that staff and lawmakers have called intimidating.
Oversight
EEOC votes not to extend contract for customer service center
Commission split over possible contract extension, considers bringing operation in-house.
Defense
Lawmaker probes need to streamline Homeland Security oversight
Top Democrat on Homeland Security panel seeks GAO review; ranking member already convinced overhaul is necessary.
Oversight
FDA suspends plan to consolidate inspection laboratories
Agency chief says he is waiting for a presidential panel’s recommendations on improving safety.
Oversight
Bill to target waste in contracting moves to Senate floor
Measure encourages maximum competition and limits length of non-competitive contracts awarded under exceptional circumstances.
Defense
House lawmaker joins bid to end TSA contracting exemption
Senators are making a similar effort; witnesses at hearing say changes would bring greater transparency, more competition.
Oversight
Lawmakers probe claims of improper influence over science
Interior inspector general questioned about interactions between scientists and policy-makers.
Oversight