Defense
Army medical units in Iraq struggle with information systems
Internal briefings show that units are using records system that runs on outdated Windows 2000 operating system.
Oversight
Spy agency extends massive contract for IT support
Three-year extension will keep CSC and Northrop Grumman-led group of contractors at NSA through 2011.
Oversight
Tech firms wary of push for contracting reform
Companies contend cost-reimbursement contracts are necessary to complete work in emergency situations, and for research and development.
Oversight
Union bristles at background checks required under ID mandate
Presidential directive requires that all federal employees be verified as suitable for employment before receiving new, more secure credentials.
Defense
Commerce Department touts public safety grant program
Nearly $1 billion in grants is set aside for improving the ability of state and local public safety networks to communicate with each other across jurisdictions.
Tech
Survey: Unauthorized teleworkers a security risk
Report recommends that agencies audit unofficial teleworkers and give them the same home computer security training and equipment as official teleworkers.
Oversight
GSA chief disputes report on Hatch Act violations
Investigators’ findings that Lurita Doan engaged in improper political activity were subjective, her lawyer argues.
Tech
Rules lacking over access to executive branch info
Congress can use tools such as control over agency budgets to encourage disclosure, report notes.
Defense
GSA announces five Networx telecom awardees
Sprint Solutions makes the smaller Enterprise contract, after disappointment on the large Universal award in March.
Defense
Defense plans to be big user of GSA’s Networx contract
Defense Information Systems Agency officials say they plan to shift from the existing FTS 2001 telecommunications system to Networx along with other federal agencies.
Oversight
OSC rejects claim it leaked copies of Hatch Act report
In a letter, Special Counsel Scott Bloch suggests that the General Services Administration was the source of the leak.
Oversight
Lawyer for GSA chief argues investigative agency is biased
Agency should “disapprove” draft report concluding Lurita Doan violated the Hatch Act, attorney says.
Oversight
Early special counsel report pushed punishment for GSA chief
Later version softened the edge, leaving it to President Bush to determine how to handle alleged Hatch Act violations.
Tech
Librarians use 'wiki' for updates on EPA consolidation
Site is designed to address confusion about the agency’s plan to shift to a primarily digital library setup.
Oversight
Special counsel finds GSA chief violated Hatch Act
Lurita Doan challenges some of report’s findings, has until June 1 to respond officially.
Tech
A year after major breach, data-security bills stalled
Senate has been active on the issue in recent weeks, but the House may face a tougher battle because the measure falls under several committees’ jurisdiction.
Tech
FAA technology chief faces 'brutal reality' of tight budgets
Chief information officer says the agency should not expect significant increases any time soon.
Tech
Mandated 'smart cards' affect tech contractors
In October, agencies had to start issuing standard IDs for all employees and contractors to use in accessing facilities or anything connected to a government computer network.
Defense
Work continues on ID card program despite bid protests
GSA restarts work, citing national security interests.
Defense