Defense
EPA, VA clear officials who appeared in religious video
Officials did not appear in uniform and weren’t identified by title.
Defense
IT, metal industries fighting over proposed Defense rule
Change would let the Pentagon buy commercial ready-made weapons parts without determining if they contain metals produced overseas.
Oversight
Research firm lowers expectations for GSA tech services contract
Report says spending through Alliant vehicle may be only $7.5 billion, well short of its $50 billion ceiling.
Oversight
Report says Defense weighed audit findings on questioned payments
GAO work appears to counter claims that a settlement on disputed contract charges ignored the auditors.
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