Defense

Freshman Democrats include anti-terrorism expert

Addition of members with military credentials could give Democrats added clout during anticipated floor debates on the war in Iraq.

Management

Groups push to advance package of Army Corps projects

Bill held up in conference committee negotiations; Senate version has stricter criteria for independent reviews of projects.

Management

Aviation groups take different routes to reauthorization

Central issue is whether to restructure how much each aviation sector pays the federal government.

News

Recess appointment possible for mine safety nominee

West Virginia senator has placed a hold on the nomination because of concerns over nominee's safety record.

Management

Lawmakers take Interior Department to task on royalty position

Minerals Management Service official argues department lacks the clout to recoup omitted royalty payments worth billions.

Management

Senate joins debate over snowmobile use at Yellowstone

The rules governing snowmobile use at Yellowstone have prompted frequent legal challenges.

News

Senate sends back Bush mine safety, air quality nominees

Other nominations returned include Tracy Henke to be executive director of the office of state and local government coordination and preparedness at DHS.

Management

Report: EPA implementation of air toxics program inadequate

Program has been a lower priority for the agency than other air quality efforts, GAO says.

Management

House to vote on bill reviving FAA-union negotiations

Legislation would need approval of two-thirds of members to pass.

News

Senators seek more funds for federal aviation programs

Lawmaker questions whether FAA will be able to hire enough air traffic controllers to replace those who are expected to retire soon.

Defense

Chertoff wants flexibility in managing chemical plant safety

Homeland Security chief encourages ranking facilities based on risk levels.

Defense

House lawmakers introduce port security bill

Legislation would provide about $800 million annually for maritime security and set new requirements for DHS.

News

Interior looks at options for expanding offshore drilling

Department proposal seeks to avoid interference with military training and testing.

News

Critics say budget fails to match energy bill priorities

Bush’s request is 23 percent short of the amount allotted for research and development in measure enacted last August.

News

West Virginia lawmakers prepare mine safety bill

Measure could include language establishing a federal rapid response team to assist local rescue workers.

Management

Senators say mine safety agency needs more money

Last year’s 1 percent across-the-board spending cut left the Mine Safety and Health Administration’s budget $2.8 million below Bush’s request.

News

Panel to hold hearings on federal role in mine disaster

Senator says "there are tough questions to be asked" of Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Defense

Rumsfeld: Gulf oil, gas exploration could disrupt military activities

Expanded production could impede missile flights, low-flying drone aircraft, weapons testing and training, Defense secretary says.

News

GOP senators wary of provision on federal land sales

House language would amend 1872 Mining Act to allow federal government to sell land for mining without receiving royalties from what is mined.

Defense

Bombings in London could spur bills on transit security