Federal Newscast

OPM still has 55,000 federal retirement applications pending finalization

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

During March, OPM received close to 15,000 incoming retirement applications, but processed over 22,000.

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Agencies warn about Iranian-linked hackers targeting critical infrastructure

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Agencies say Iranian-linked hackers are targeting critical industries like the U.S. energy and water sectors.

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Space Force could see a major increase in the proposed budget

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Space Force budget would see a major increase under President Donald Trump’s massive $1.5 trillion defense proposal. The White House is requesting $71 billion for the newest military branch. The service received approximately $40 billion for the current fiscal year, which ends on September 30. Space Force officials have long argued that the service needs to grow in order to effectively meet growing national security demands. Service officials previously said the Space Force is not only prepared to absorb a significant influx of funding, it’s also in urgent need of a large funding boost.

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Service member suicide rates dropped by 11% in 2024, Pentagon finds

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Despite the decline, 472 service members died by suicide last year, continuing a yearslong trend of increasing suicide rates among active duty service members.

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Social Security delays new appointment schedule systems, again

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Social Security Administration's rollout of new systems for scheduling appointments and managing its caseload nationwide is on hold for now.

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TSP funds see losses in March

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The bad month for the TSP also means 12 of 16 funds are in the red for 2026.

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Applications are open for next class of White House Fellows

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration has opened applications for the next class of White House Fellows. Those selected for the fellowship program will spend a year in Washington, D.C., aiding the work of senior administration officials. Applications are open until April 22. Once candidates are selected, the paid fellowship opportunity begins this September and ends next August.

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Data centers are coming to Fort Bliss in Texas and Dugway Proving Ground in Utah

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Army has selected two companies to build massive data centers at Fort Bliss in Texas and at Dugway Proving Ground in Utah. The deal follows President Donald Trump’s executive order to allow private companies to use federally owned land and resources to quickly build AI data centers. While the deal is not final, the selection of the two companies will allow the arm to enter negotiations and finalize the terms of the agreement. The Army said the two companies will be “responsible for financing, building, operating, maintaining and decommissioning the data centers on underutilized land at no upfront cost to taxpayers.” The data center at Fort Bliss is expected to be operational in 2027, while the project at Dugway Proving Ground is expected to be completed by 2029. The Army Corps of Engineers will play a key role in this project’s development.

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Lawmakers look to codify limits on defense contractor executive compensation

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A bipartisan group of lawmakers are seeking to codify President Donald Trump’s executive order that limits stock buybacks and executive pay for certain defense contractors. A new bill, titled Prioritizing the Warfighter in Defense Contracting Act, would prohibit large defense contractors from purchasing their own stock and paying out dividends. It would also prohibit linking executive pay to short-term financial metrics and cap executive compensation at $5 million. Contractors that fail to comply could face penalties, including suspending contract payments and terminating contracts. Republican Senator Josh Hawley said that defense contractors “should be focused on expanding production, not padding their bottom lines.”

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The EEOC seconds the Trump administration's decision to stop covering gender affirming care for federal employees

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has upheld the Trump administration’s decision to eliminate federal health insurance coverage of gender-affirming care.

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Cybersecurity training no longer an annual requirement for Army soldiers and civilian workers

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army is changing the requirements for cybersecurity and privacy training.

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Senate Democrats want answers from AI companies about how their working with the Pentagon

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate Democrats are expanding their investigation into how the Defense Department is using artificial intelligence.

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Human capital issues at the top of many agencies' lists of management challenges

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the vast majority federal agencies are facing major human capital challenges.

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With leadership changes happening at DHS, members of Congress want to make sure the proper records are retained

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers want to make sure the Department of Homeland Security holds onto the records from outgoing officials.

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Senate proposal would limit how the Defense Department can use AI technology

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Democratic lawmaker seeks to put guardrails around the Pentagon’s use of artificial intelligence in military operations.

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The Army is officially tightening rules around its education program

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Army is officially tightening rules around its popular education programs. The service is eliminating Credentialing Assistance for commissioned officers, limiting that benefit primarily to enlisted troops. Army officials previously said that officers already have access to various education opportunities, while enlisted soldiers face more challenges transitioning to civilian careers. Under the new policy, all credentialing assistance requests will require command approval. Soldiers failing to complete their courses will be suspended from requesting credentialing assistance for a year.

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DoD attempts to make its case for Anthropic’s label as a national security risk

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Attorneys argue against the judge giving Anthropic a preliminary injunction that would put the federal supply chain risk determination on hold.

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Projected costs grow for DoD’s Golden Dome initiative

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department is blowing through initial estimates of what its Golden Dome initiative would cost. General Michael Guetlein, Golden Dome's manager, said Tuesday the Pentagon is “at $185 billion for the objective architecture, which delivers way out into the 2035 timeframe.” This estimate is already $10 billion more and will take five years longer than what President Donald Trump said it would cost and when it would be ready. Guetlein also says that outside projections are “estimating a very large, complex capability.” The Defense Department instead is “changing that equation, simplifying, disaggregating it, to bring down that cost equation” that won’t exceed that $185 billion.

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IRS has no plan to reduce backlog of taxpayer correspondence, watchdog finds

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A government watchdog says the IRS doesn’t yet have a plan to reduce its backlog of taxpayer correspondence. The Government Accountability Office says the agency’s backlog at the end of last year’s filing season remained higher than pre-pandemic levels. GAO says that without a plan the IRS risks not doing all it can to bring down the backlog; and may provide less timely service to taxpayers. The IRS says it will take GAO’s recommendations into consideration.

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A new bill looks to exempt National Guard and Reserve drill pay from federal taxes

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A new bill seeks to exempt National Guard and Reserve drill pay from federal income taxes. The No Tax on Drill Pay Act would eliminate taxes on income earned during Inactive Duty Training, which typically includes monthly drill weekends and other readiness training throughout the year. Congressman Andy Barr, who introduced the bill, said eliminating federal taxes on drill pay would reward the more than 800,000 Americans who serve in the Guard and Reserve. The bill follows several recent proposals aimed at making certain military pay tax-free. Last year, a group of lawmakers introduced legislation to exempt all military bonuses from federal income tax, while another proposal is seeking to fully exempt military compensation from federal income tax.

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Democratic leaders wants answers about DOGE’s activities at Social Security

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

A top committee Democrat wants more information on DOGE’s activities at the Social Security Administration. Ranking Member Gary Peters on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is calling for a full and independent investigation of DOGE’s use of sensitive agency information. The senator’s push comes after reports that DOGE’s access to Social Security systems put Americans’ personal information at risk and potentially violated the law.

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DHS nominee gets his day in the Senate next week

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

President Donald Trump’s new pick to lead the Department of Homeland Security will get his day in the Senate next week. The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has scheduled Markwayne Mullin’s confirmation hearing for the morning of Wednesday, March 18th. Mullin, currently the junior senator from Oklahoma, is expected to field tough questions about his plans for overseeing the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement agenda and other key DHS issues. Mullin has little prior experience in homeland security roles. He has championed Trump’s immigration crackdown as a member of the Senate.

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OMB has not provided comprehensive list of federal programs, watchdog finds

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

As the Trump administration presses forward with efforts to reduce government, a watchdog has found that there is not a comprehensive list of all federal programs to start with. Despite being legally required to do so, the Office of Management and Budget has yet to publish an inventory of all current agency programs. A new report from the Government Accountability Office recommends that OMB fill in those data gaps, and disclose any areas that are missing information.

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Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin formally nominated for DHS secretary

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

President Trump formally transmitted Markwayne Mullin’s nomination to be Homeland Security Secretary to the Senate yesterday. Last week, Trump announced he would have Mullin, the junior Senator from Oklahoma replace Kristi Noem, who’s expected to step down as Secretary at the end of this month. But Mullin still requires confirmation and Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Rand Paul has yet to announce a nomination hearing.

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Federal employee retirement applications hit another record high

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees’ retirement applications are continuing to flood the Office of Personnel Management. In February, another 31,000 retirement claims entered the agency’s systems. That puts OPM’s Retirement Services center at yet another record high of pending applications — now reaching above 65,000 cases with pensions that are yet-to-be finalized. That’s an 88% increase since OPM’s inventory last October, when retirements from the deferred resignation program first began trickling in.

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A plan to limit when federal employees can cancel their union dues is off the table

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A plan to limit when federal employees can cancel their union du es if officially off the table. The Federal Labor Relations Authority is rescinding a previous proposal from 2022, which would have given federal employees only a once-per-year opportunity to cancel dues payments. Since 2020, dues-paying federal employees have had the option to cancel automatic deductions for union dues at any time.

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OpenAI and the Defense Department adjust the deal they made days ago

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:30:00 -0000

OpenAI and the Defense Department have adjusted the deal they made just days ago for use of the company’s artificial intelligence tools in classified environments. The changes center around prohibiting use of the Open AI’s technology for domestic surveillance, autonomous weapons systems and autonomous decision-making. These are similar to the safeguards Anthropic had insisted on that tanked its deal with the Pentagon and got it labeled as a national security risk. OpenAI also said the deal was adjusted to clarify that the Pentagon won’t use its technology at any of its intelligence agencies; that would require a separate agreement.

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New bill would protect domestic violence survivors during the federal retirement process

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A new bill would prevent federal retirees who survived domestic violence from needing to share personal details with their abusers during the retirement process. Currently, retired feds must get written consent from their current or former spouse if they update their retirement benefits; which can mean exposing personal contact information to abusers. But the “Federal Retirement Safety Act” sponsored by Congressman Joe Neguse would direct the Office of Personnel Management to waive the requirement for survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence. OPM already waives the requirement for people whose spouses have died or aren’t able to be located.

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TSP funds mostly stay positive in February

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Federal employees saw only small growth in most of their retirement accounts in February. All but one of the funds in the Thrift Savings Plan came in with positive returns for the month, but the increase was notably lower across the board. The I Fund, for example, saw the biggest increase of more than 6% in February, but that was much lower than the 12% increase it saw in January. The C Fund was the only account that came in negative, losing 0.76% as compared to January. For the year, all funds are in the black.

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Federal union calls for Congress to pay all DHS employees during partial shutdown

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Tens of thousands of employees have been working unpaid through the Department of Homeland Security shutdown. But thousands of others across DHS will be getting a paycheck on time. The American Federation of Government Employees is urging Congress to immediately compensate all employees affected by the DHS shutdown. The union is calling for the passage of the Shutdown Fairness Act, which would pay federal employees on time during any current or future funding lapse.

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Sen. Wyden puts hold on nominee to lead U.S. Cyber command and NSA

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Democratic Senator Ron Wyden is blocking the Trump administration’s nominee to lead both U.S. Cyber Command and the National Security Agency. Wyden says that Lieutenant General Joshua Rudd, who currently serves as the deputy commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, lacks the experience needed to immediately step into the dual leadership role. The lawmaker added that when it comes to U.S. cybersecurity, “there is simply no time for on-the-job learning, the threat is just too urgent for that.”

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New GAO data looks at agency staffing declines in 2025

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

While nearly all major federal agencies saw staffing declines in the first half of 2025, the size of those separations varied. NASA’s workforce, along with civilian staff at the Defense Department, declined by less than 5%. But the Education Department lost more than 20% of its workforce in the same timeframe. That’s all according to new data analysis from the Government Accountability Office. GAO says it will continue issuing updates on federal workforce staffing changes over time.

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Pentagon announces new director of DoDEA in abrupt leadership change

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A new director with both military command and education experience will take over Defense Department schools beginning next month. Paul Craft, an Ohio Army National Guard officer with more than three decades of service, will replace Beth Schiavino-Narvaez, who brought extensive public education leadership experience to the role. The abrupt leadership change signals a shift in educational priorities for schools serving military families around the world. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Craft will “swiftly reorient DoDEA towards patriotic values and classical learning.” The Defense Department Education Activity serves more than 67,000 military-connected students.

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Supreme Court looks to AI to prevent conflicts of interest

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The nation’s highest court is adopting new technology to prevent conflicts of interest. The Supreme Court says it is now using newly developed software to assist in identifying potential conflicts for the justices. The software will run automated recusal checks that compare information about parties and attorneys in a case with lists created by each Justice’s chamber. The Court’s Office of Information Technology worked with the Legal Office and the Clerk’s Office to design the technology. New court rules to support use of the software will take effect March 16.

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Treasury releases new resources for AI use in the financial sector

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Treasury Department is highlighting best practices for using artificial intelligence within the financial sector. They include an artificial intelligence lexicon and a financial services AI risk management framework. The resources were developed by the Artificial Intelligence Executive Oversight Group, a Treasury-led partnership between financial institutions and regulators. The voluntary guidelines come as financial institutions increasingly rely on A-I to support decision-making, customer engagement, and operational functions.

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Senators call for investigation into dismantling of Minority Business Development Agency

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Six Democrats in the Senators are asking the Government Accountability Office to further investigate whether the Commerce Department broke the law when it dismantled the Minority Business Development Agency or MBDA. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján and others say they are concerned that Commerce defied federal court orders when political leaders terminated the funding for at least nine MBDA business centers and sent Reduction in Force (RIF) notices to terminate the last 24 employees still working at the agency. The lawmakers already had asked GAO to look into Commerce's initial actions to shutdown MBDA over the summer.

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Pay freeze continues for certain Executive Schedule employees

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Some senior political appointees, including the vice president, will continue to see a long-standing freeze on their salaries. The Office of Personnel Management announced that pay rates will continue to be capped for certain Executive Schedule employees. Political appointees in Schedules C and G, however, are exempted from the pay freeze. Certain higher-paid positions have continued to see their salary capped for more than a decade. For 2026, the pay ceiling sits at about $197,000.

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Defense Dept working with industry to overhaul acquisition process

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department is bringing in industry experts to help overhaul its acquisition process. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the new Business Operators for National Defense program, or BOND, has already engaged over 100 industry experts, including dozens of former CEOs, COOs and CIOs already advising senior Pentagon officials. “BOND embeds elite private sector patriots, leaders with decades of experience at world class companies such as Apple, Ford, Microsoft and Tesla, directly into our acquisition process," Hegseth said. "Think of the best of the best leaders of our best private sector companies coming and joining the War Department.”

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Lawmakers want answers about IRS Free File program

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The IRS pulled the plug on its free, online tax filing platform. Members of the Senate say the agency's partnership with tax filing companies hasn’t stepped up. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Angus King (I-Maine) are asking the IRS what it’s doing to promote its Free File program with tax-preparation companies. The program saw a peak of about five million taxpayers in 2004, but has seen a decline in users since then. The number of companies participating in the program has also declined.

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Space Force surpasses its fiscal 2026 recruiting goal

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Space Force has surpassed its fiscal 2026 recruiting goal just five months into the year. The service has already exceeded its recruiting goal by 25% for recruits who have shipped to basic military training or entered the delayed entry program. Despite that progress, service officials warn the current force is too small to meet growing national security demands. Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force John Bentivegna said while “achieving a force of just over 10,000 uniformed guardians in 2025 was a landmark milestone, it is insufficient for the missions we have been assigned.” Bentivegna also told lawmakers that the service needs to increase its infrastructure and double its size to “effectively fulfill our national mandate.”

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The leader of a major federal employee union is stepping down

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A federal employee union head is stepping down after leading it for more than 14 years. Lee Saunders is retiring as president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. Despite the name, it also represents federal employees in the departments of Justice, Transportation, Agriculture and Veterans Affairs as well as the Library of Congress. Saunders will step down in August after the union elects a new president.

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Veterans Affairs explores potential uses for artificial intelligence

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Veterans Affairs is exploring hundreds of potential uses for artificial intelligence. More than half of them would impact its health-care mission. The VA says AI-assisted colonoscopies are leading to better detection of tumors. It also says AI helps mitigate the risk of opioid overdose and suicide among patients. The department says more than 130 use cases are currently being deployed across its operations and that many more are still in development.

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Sen. Wyden pledges to hold nominee to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Senator Ron Wyden is pledging to keep his hold on the nominee to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Wyden says he will continue to object to Sean Plankey’s nomination until CISA releases a 2022 report on security flaws in the U.S. telecommunications system. Wyden previously held up Plankey’s nomination for much of last year over the same issue.

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Defense Department says it’s cutting ties with Harvard University

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department says it’s cutting ties with Harvard University. The Pentagon says this will be the final school year for its graduate level professional military education programs affiliated with the university. DoD’s Harvard fellowships and certificate programs will end too. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says he made the decision because of what he calls “globalist and radical ideologies” at the university. Hegseth says the department will be reviewing its relationships with other schools in the coming weeks.

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17 veterans died by suicide a day in 2023, new report finds

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0000

About 17 veterans died by suicide each day in 2023. That’s nearly 6,400 for the entire year. An annual report from the Department of Veterans Affairs shows overall veteran suicides are decreasing. More than half of veterans who died by suicide did not receive VA health care in the last year of their life. Suicide rates are elevated for veterans ages 18 to 34 and those experiencing homelessness, health problems or chronic pain. Veterans with thoughts of suicide can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 and then pressing 1.

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Golden Dome defense initiative could cost $3.6 trillion over the next 20 years

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Taxpayers for Common Sense, a fiscal watchdog group, says the Trump administration’s Golden Dome missile defense initiative could cost as much as $3.6 trillion over the next 20 years, far exceeding the White House’s projected $175 billion. The group also argues the effort faces “insurmountable” technical hurdles that could prevent it from reliably defending the United States against nuclear threats. “Even under generous technical assumptions, the viability challenges facing Golden Dome are severe,” the report warns. Plus, the initiative could accelerate the nuclear arms race and complicate efforts to secure arms control agreements that reduce the nuclear threat.

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VHA saw the highest uptick in law enforcement staffing from 2020 - 2024, GAO finds

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Law enforcement staffing at federal agencies varied between fiscal years 2020 and 2024. But a new Government Accountability Office report shows the Veterans Health Administration saw a major uptick in law enforcement staffing during that period, going from 4,699 officers in 2020 to 6,281 by the end of 2024. VHA was an outlier as most other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies either had flat workforce totals or saw varying levels of attrition. GAO’s report doesn’t cover the last year when the Department of Homeland Security recruited a record number of immigration enforcement and Border Patrol agents.

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TSP’s I fund continues to outpace other investment accounts

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The I fund in the Thrift Savings Plan continues to outpace every other investment account. In January, the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board says the I fund increased by almost 6% as compared to December. No other TSP fund increased by more than 3.11%. Overall, every TSP fund saw a month over month increase in January. For the past 12 months, the I fund increased by over 35%, which is 14% more than any other TSP account. Outside of the I fund, four of the L funds, 2055, 2060, 2070 and 2075, were the next biggest earners, seeing a month over month increase of 3.11%.

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House bill to reform FEMA now has more than 50 co-sponsors

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A bill in the House to reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency now has more than 50 co-sponsors. The Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act has 35 Republicans and 21 Democrats signed onto the bill. The legislation has been steadily gaining co-sponsors as uncertainty swirls around the future of FEMA under the Trump administration. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed the bill last year. It would shift FEMA out from under the Department of Homeland Security and make major reforms to how the agency manages disaster assistance projects.

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Virginia’s senators call for investigation into DHS use of sensitive personal data

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0000

Both of Virginia's senators want an investigation into how the Department of Homeland Security uses sensitive personal data. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner this week requested that DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari look into that issue. They pointed to reports that DHS and Immigration and Customs Enforcement are tapping into tools ranging from facial recognition and license plate readers to social media monitoring. Earlier this month, ICE also released a request for information on the use of AdTech data to help with its investigations.

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DHS leaders to testify before House Homeland Security Committee

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Top officials at the Department of Homeland Security will testify in front of the House next month. Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons, Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow are all slated to testify February 10 in front of the Homeland Security Committee. They’ll face a barrage of questions about the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew Garbarino says transparency and communication are needed to “turn the temperature down.”

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Senate leaders want answers from Social Security about DOGE sharing its data

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Leaders of the Senate Finance Committee want answers from the Social Security Administration about DOGE sharing its data. Chairman Mike Crapo and Ranking Member Ron Wyden are asking SSA what agency data was shared with outside groups. The Justice Department recently told a federal court that DOGE staffers at the agency discussed sharing agency data with an advocacy group looking to “overturn election results” in some states. DOJ referred the two DOGE employees for potential violations of the Hatch Act.

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IRS announces opening of 2026 tax filing season

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The IRS says it’s ready for an increased workload after the start of this year’s tax filing season on Monday. The agency expects to receive 164 million individual income tax returns with most taxpayers filing electronically. The agency lost about a quarter of its workforce last year. Last week the IRS announced a last-minute shakeup of its executive leadership. Taxpayers have until April 15 to file their tax returns or request an extension.

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House Homeland Security Cmte Chairman calls for USCIS CBP and ICE leaders to testify

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A top House Republican is calling on Department of Homeland Security officials to testify in front of Congress. Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew Garbarino formally requested testimony from the heads of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Garbarino says he wants to make sure those agencies are effectively using their resources. But his letter comes in the aftermath of another deadly shooting by a federal agent in Minnesota as part of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.

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House passes final spending bills before January 30th deadline

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The House on Thursday passed the final group of spending bills needed before the January 30th funding deadline. In a vote of 341 to 88, lawmakers approved fiscal 2026 funding for the departments of Defense, Labor, Education, Transportation and Health and Human Services. But due to Democratic opposition over ICE funding, the spending bill for the Department of Homeland Security passed with a much narrower margin, in a party line vote of 220 to 207. The appropriations package now heads to the Senate for consideration.

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DoD failed to provide Congress with $23B Golden Dome effort

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Lawmakers are still waiting for the Defense Department to provide details on how it plans to spend $23 billion already approved for the Golden Dome effort. Congressional appropriators say the Pentagon has not provided key budget information such as deployment schedule, cost, schedule and performance metrics, as well as a finalized system architecture. The White House has estimated the project could cost as much as $175 billion over the next three years. As a result, House and Senate appropriators were unable to conduct oversight of Golden Dome programs for fiscal 2026. Lawmakers want Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to submit a detailed spending plan within 60 days of the bill’s enactment.

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Senate Democrats call for greater oversight of DHS & ICE

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Rand Paul is facing calls to ramp up oversight of the Department of Homeland Security. Democrats on the committee are calling on him to investigate the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement operations. They say Paul should issue subpoenas if necessary and have senior officials like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testify in front of the panel. Their letter comes in the wake of the fatal shooting of Renee Good in Minnesota.

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Justice Dept recovers money than ever for False Claims Act violations

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Justice Department recovered more money through the False Claims Act in fiscal 2025 than ever before. New data says DoJ won $6.8 billion in settlements for healthcare, procurement and tariff fraud. A significant amount of those cases were driven by whistleblowers. DoJ says there were 1,297 qui tam lawsuits filed last year, the highest number in a single year, and the government opened 401 investigations. Of the $6.8 billion in False Claims Act recoveries last year, $5.7 billion related to matters that involved the health care industry.

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The Coast Guard officially has a new leader

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Coast Guard has a new leader. Admiral Kevin Lunday officially assumed command of the service on Thursday during a ceremony at Coast Guard headquarters. The Senate confirmed Lunday last month after his nomination was temporarily delayed due to a controversy over the service’s policy regarding hate symbols. He had been serving as acting commandant since January, following the dismissal of Admiral Linda Fagan by President Donald Trump. Lunday previously led Coast Guard Cyber Command. He also held a senior leadership role at U.S. Cyber Command.

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House Democrats call for DHS Secretary to be replaced

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is at the center of new calls to replace Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. In a letter to President Donald Trump on Wednesday, 14 House Democrats say Trump should fire Noem over what they say are damaging cuts to FEMA’s workforce. They also say Noem’s policy of signing off on all spending over $100,000 is slowing down FEMA’s disaster response efforts. The letter comes a day after more than 50 House Dems filed articles of impeachment against Noem citing her handling of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

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The TSP millionaires club adds another 5,000 members

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Close to 5,000 more Thrift Savings Plan participants have joined the club of so-called TSP millionaires. As of January 1st, nearly 195,000 TSP participants now have accounts totaling over $1 million. That represents about 2.7% of all TSP accounts. The pace of growth appears to be slowing down though. In the previous fiscal quarter, the number of TSP millionaires rose by about 19,000.

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The National Reconnaissance Office has a new top official

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The secretive National Reconnaissance Office has announced a new top official. William Adkins was appointed principal deputy director of the NRO on Monday. Adkins previously served as professional staff on the House Appropriations Committee. He’s also a veteran of the Central Intelligence Agency and had been detailed to the NRO to manage technology development projects in the late 1990’s.

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Presidential Rank Awards return in 2026

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Presidential Rank Awards are back for 2026, and the Office of Personnel Management is now looking for nominations. The prestigious honors program is reserved for career members of the Senior Executive Service and other senior career employees. OPM’s new call for nominations marks a restart of the awards program, which the Trump administration canceled for 2025. Agencies have until February 5th to submit nominations to OPM for any executives they want to be considered for a 2026 award.

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DoD data on telework and remote work is likely inaccurate

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

A government watchdog found that the Defense Department has never formally evaluated telework and remote work programs against agency goals. DoD officials, however, reported “perceived” benefits and challenges. The Government Accountability Office says without formal evaluation of these programs, DoD cannot determine whether these programs help meet agency goals. While defense officials told the Government Accountability Office that their use of these flexibilities improved productivity, efficiency, and recruitment and retention; some officials said that telework reduced opportunities for collaboration and information sharing and decreased morale. The watchdog also found that the data on the number of teleworkers and remote workers DoD previously reported is likely inaccurate.

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Federal wildland firefighters are keeping their higher pay rates

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Federal wildland firefighters would keep their higher pay rates under the latest congressional appropriations package. The spending “minibus” maintains funding for wildland firefighters’ permanent pay raise, as well as job updates that were initially included in the 2021 infrastructure law. The new appropriations package also would ‘not’ adopt President Trump’s plan to combine wildland firefighting forces into a single agency. According to the legislation, wildland firefighters from the Forest Service and the Interior Department would remain separate.

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Federal retirement inventory reaches another new high

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0000

The federal retirement inventory has reached yet another new high. The Office of Personnel Management now has over 50,000 applications still awaiting a finalized annuity. The increase comes after more than 13,000 retirement applications entered OPM’s systems in December. It's taking OPM about 67 days to process a retirement case from start to finish. But OPM's numbers don’t include any retirement cases still pending with agencies. Some retirees report major delays in receiving their payments, months after separating from government.

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Defense Department officially has a new CIO

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

Kirsten Davies has officially taken over the role of the Defense Department's chief information officer. She was sworn in right before the Christmas break. Congress confirmed Davies on December 18th as part of the final tranche of nominees from President Trump. Davies succeeds Katie Arrington, who has performed the duties of DoD CIO since March. Arrington spearheaded a number of major initiatives during her tenure, including an overhaul of the department’s legacy processes for buying software.

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Thrift Savings Plan I fund continues year-long positive run

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:30:00 -0000

The Thrift Savings Plan's I fund continued its year-long positive run in December, posting a month over month increase of more than 3%. That, by far, was the best performing TSP fund in the final month of 2025. For the year, the I fund saw a return of more than 32%, which was more than 10% higher than any other account. Overall in December, 13 of 15 funds came back in the black. Only the F and S funds posted negative returns in December as compared to November. For the year, 12 of 15 TSP funds returned more than 11%.

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DHS agrees to push back plans to dissolve TSA union

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Department of Homeland Security has agreed to push back plans to dissolve a union agreement for airport screeners by one week as part of an ongoing court case. The Transportation Security Administration had planned to eliminate the collective bargaining agreement for TSA staff on January 11. But the American Federation of Government Employees, which represents TSA staff, is seeking an emergency order to block that action. TSA says it will delay the effective date to January 18, to allow for arguments over the motion. The judge in the case had already issued a preliminary injunction blocking an earlier attempt by TSA to eliminate the union agreement.

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There’s new leadership at the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency has new leadership in place. Justin Overbaugh has been serving as acting director of DCSA since November. Overbaugh was confirmed by the Senate in September to serve as deputy under secretary of defense for intelligence and security. His appointment to also lead DCSA comes after full-time director David Cattler stepped down in September. Overbaugh is a retired Army colonel with 25 years of intelligence and special operations experience.

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DHS looks to cut number of paper FOIA requests

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Department of Homeland Security is looking to cut down on the number of paper Freedom of Information Act requests it receives. Under a final rule set to go into effect next month, DHS will require most people to submit FOIA and Privacy Act requests electronically. DHS will allow for alternative submission methods in limited circumstances where an electronic request isn’t feasible, such as for incarcerated people. The department says the new rule will allow FOIA officers to spend less time on data entry and more time searching for and reviewing records.

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Veterans Affairs will no longer perform some emergency services

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Veterans Affairs will no longer perform abortions in emergency cases in light of a new legal opinion from the Justice Department. The VA started providing abortions to veterans in certain life-threatening circumstances in fall 2022. This comes after the Supreme Court ruling on the Dobbs v. Jackson case. The department began the process of rolling back the policy this summer. That process is still making its way through the official rule-making process.

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New bipartisan bill makes access to federal disaster aid relief easier

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Federal Emergency Management Agency would be required to create a universal disaster assistance application under a bill passed by the Senate last week. The goal of the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act is to make it easier for disaster survivors to access federal aid. Lawmakers say the current process is complex and time consuming, with different agencies using different forms. The bill would also require all information shared between FEMA and partner agencies to meet federal data security standards.

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Defense Dept fails to pass its annual audit, again

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The Defense Department failed to pass its annual audit once again. Auditors found 26 material weaknesses and “two significant deficiencies related to the DoD’s internal controls over financial reporting.” The review covered the department’s $4.7 trillion in assets and another $4.7 trillion in liabilities. The Pentagon has failed every audit since launching its first agency-wide review in 2018. Congress has set a goal for the DoD to achieve a clean audit by fiscal 2028.

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Republican lawmakers seek reauthorization of key VA programs

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

House Republicans are seeking annual reauthorization of key programs at the Veterans Affairs Department. Top lawmakers on the House VA Committee are leading a series of bills that would reauthorize the department’s Veteran Readiness and Employment program. This is the third wave of VA reauthorization bills lawmakers have introduced. The legislation would also move the Labor Department’s Veterans Education and Training Service program to the VA.

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There’s a new recruitment opportunity at HHS

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

There’s a new recruitment opportunity at Health and Human Services. The agency has just launched the Roy Wilkins Fellowship. It’s reserved for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, or HBCUs, who are interested in public service. Many of HHS’s divisions will host career fairs to promote the new fellowship, including the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The opportunity comes in response to an executive order President Trump signed in April, on promoting innovation at HBCU’s.

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DHA reorganization left gaps in military health management

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Pentagon inspector general found the Defense Health Agency failed to issue finalized guidance defining roles, responsibilities and access-to-care standards after reorganizing the military health system. The average wait for urgent medical appointments at military medical treatment facilities outside the United States stretched as long as 21 days in some locations, while routine appointments were delayed by as much as 37 days. Auditors also said many overseas facilities were understaffed, and personnel working in military clinics and hospitals experienced burnout and low morale. The inspector general recommended that the DHA director track data on why personnel are leaving military medical facilities.

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Army and Navy miscalculated number of low-scoring recruits entering military, IG finds

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Pentagon inspector general found the Army and Navy miscalculated the number of low-scoring recruits entering the military through their preparatory programs. The watchdog found the services used recruits’ improved test scores instead of the scores they had when they first signed up. As a result, both services exceeded the legal limits of recruits with low test scores entering the program. The courses are designed to help recruits meet academic and physical standards before starting basic training. The services also failed to notify the Secretary of Defense and Congress that they had exceeded that limit, as required by law.

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More than 60% of government security clearance data last year was inaccurate

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

More than 60% of the government’s security clearance data last year was either inaccurate or incomplete. That’s according to a recent review conducted by the Government Accountability Office. In a new report, GAO says delays and issues with IT systems continue to make the security clearance process a top management challenge in the federal government. The issue has remained on GAO’s High-Risk List since 2018.

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Federal retirement numbers at OPM continue to rise

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Federal retirement numbers at the Office of Personnel Management are continuing to skyrocket. In November, OPM took in another 23,000 applications from retiring employees. That’s on top of more than 20,000 that entered OPM’s systems in October. Together, those numbers mean retirement applications are triple the volume they were at this time last year. In total, OPM’s retirement inventory is now closing in on 50,000 applications that are still awaiting finalization.

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$900 billion defense policy bill clears the House

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The House has passed a $900 bill defense policy bill, which includes a 3.8% pay raise for service members. The must-pass legislation now heads to the Senate. Once it clears the chamber, the bill will go to President Trump for his signature. The bill seeks to streamline the way the Pentagon buys its capabilities. Congressional leaders said the legislation would deliver "the most significant acquisition reforms in a generation." It also fully supports Trump's priorities, including banning all diversity, equity and inclusion programs at the Defense Department and fully funding the department's border security efforts.

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Could USPS network changes threaten access to prescription drugs?

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Recent changes to the Postal Service’s network could mean slower deliveries of prescription drugs in the mail. A study from the Brookings Institution finds 6% of Americans live far away from a brick-and-mortar pharmacy, rely heavily on mail-order prescriptions and live in areas impacted by USPS consolidation. Brookings finds nearly half of all Americans face at least one of those scenarios. USPS this year has been running trucks less often between its processing plants and post offices to transport mail and packages.

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The nation's largest federal employee union is not on board for the current NDAA

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The nation’s largest federal employee union is urging Congress to vote against the House rule for the 2026 defense policy bill. The American Federation of Government Employees says negotiators removed a bipartisan House provision that would have restored collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of Defense Department civilian employees. The union says removing that language means the legislation fails to protect basic rights of workers who maintain ships and aircraft and support service members. AFGE is calling on lawmakers to reject the procedural rule and restore the worker protections before the National Defense Authorization Act moves forward.

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Army plans for clean 2028 audit in jeopardy, IG says

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

More discouraging news for the Pentagon’s prospects of obtaining a clean financial audit by the current 2028 deadline. A new evaluation by the Defense Department inspector general finds the department’s plan to remediate one of its key, longstanding material weaknesses, an inability to keep track of government property in the possession of contractors, doesn’t appear to be working. DoD intended to fix the problem largely by tracking the contractor-managed property in a software module within the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment. But according to the IG, key DoD leaders haven’t mandated the use of that module, and the military services haven’t updated their own systems to properly interface with it.

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More moves to reorganize the Army take effect today

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

More moves to reorganize the Army take effect today. The new Army Western Hemisphere Command will officially come into being with its headquarters at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The new organization combines the existing U.S. Army North, U.S. Army South and Army Forces Command under one umbrella before those organizations are formally disestablished next October. The new command will also absorb the Army’s 18th Airborne Corps, Air Traffic Services Command and the 1st Army.

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There’s a new performance management training program for federal supervisors

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management is requiring all federal supervisors to enroll in a new training program on performance management. A new memo says the mandatory training will cover how to both reward and discipline employees, as well as how to create effective performance plans. All supervisors are required to complete OPM's new training by February 9, 2026.

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Major changes coming for members of the Senior Executive Service

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Federal executives may soon see even more changes coming from the Trump administration. The Office of Personnel Management is now encouraging agencies to consider possible reassignments of Senior Executive Service members. In a new memo, OPM argues that the SES has not served as a “mobile corps” of managers, and members are instead being “entrenched” at agencies. The new memo comes after OPM also advised agencies to consider lowering their staffing allocations for senior-level positions.

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Thrift Savings Plan returns mostly positive in November

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Most funds in the Thrift Savings Plan saw minimal growth in November with 15 of 16 coming in higher than where they finished in October. But no fund saw an increase greater than 0.64% for the past 30 days. And only the S fund saw a month over month decline, dropping 0.45%. The I Fund remains the biggest winner for the year with a total increase of 28.54%, while four L Funds also produced returns of greater than 20% in 2025.

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IG reports that USPS is slow to identify underutilized spaces

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Federal agencies are trying to eliminate underutilized space in their buildings. But a watchdog report finds the Postal Service generally isn’t asking those same questions. The USPS inspector general’s office finds the agency hasn’t collected space utilization data for more than 60% of its properties. USPS operates more than 34,000 properties across the country. The IG’s office says that by not collecting this data the agency missed out on an opportunity to save nearly $15 million.

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Customer satisfaction with federal benefits and services sees a two-decade high

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Customer satisfaction with benefits and services provided by the federal government is higher than it’s been in nearly two decades. That’s despite a tumultuous year where agencies have seen a major downsizing of the federal workforce. Scores are higher on average, but the latest scorecard from the American Customer Satisfaction Index does show a few agencies are seeing lower scores. The Office of Personnel Management and the Department of Homeland Security are among the agencies with lower customer experience scores.

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Trump administration finalizes updating federal probationary employee records

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Trump administration says it’s finished updating federal employee records to remove some of the negative consequences of this year’s mass firing of probationary employees. Federal agencies say the personnel records have all been updated to reflect the fact that those workers were not fired for performance reasons. That step was ordered by a federal judge, who found agencies wrongly asserted that employees’ terminations were connected to their performance.

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776 Air Traffic controllers and technician will receive $10,000 shutdown bonuses

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Federal Aviation Administration is giving 776 air traffic controllers and technicians a $10,000 bonus for working during the 44-day partial government shutdown. The bonuses will be sent to those employees who maintained perfect attendance during the shutdown. Recipients will receive an automated notification this week and receive their payment no later than December 9. The FAA's decision to offer bonuses to employees follows a similar effort by TSA to reward Transportation Security Officers who also worked during the government shutdown.

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Major problems found in almost all privatized military housing

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

● A new survey finds that nearly every service member living in privatized military housing has experienced serious problems in their home and many of those issues go unresolved. The Change the Air Foundation recently found 97% of service members reported at least one significant problem in their military-provided home, with mold, mildew, and water damage cited most frequently. Out of 3,401 respondents, three-quarters said their family’s health had been negatively impacted by their housing conditions, and nearly half said a medical provider had confirmed the connection.

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Army selects nine installations for potential microreactor power plants

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

The Army has selected nine installations as potential sites for microreactor power plants under its next-generation Janus nuclear power program. Meanwhile, the Defense Innovation Unit issued a solicitation for commercial advanced nuclear technologies to support the effort. The nine sites the Army identified through comprehensive analysis include Fort Bragg in North Carolina and Redstone Arsenal in Alabama. The Army said the final number and location for these microreactors will be determined as part of the acquisition process, but the service is committed to maximizing the number of sites.

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U.S. Cyber Command has a new Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

U.S. Cyber Command has a new chief artificial intelligence officer. Brig. Gen. Reid Novotny, who was tapped to serve in the role, said his priority will be ensuring that AI strengthens the nation’s cyber forces and improves decision-making advantage. Novotny previously served as the National Guard Bureau’s director of intelligence and cyber effects operations and most recently as the Office of the National Cyber Director’s senior military policy adviser. Novotny steps into the role amid leadership turnover and other turmoil at the military’s top cyber enterprise.

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IRS increases annual TSP maximum contribution

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Federal employees will be able to contribute more to their Thrift Savings Plan accounts next year. The IRS increased the maximum annual contribution limit to $24,500, which is a $1,000 increase over 2025. Additionally, employees aged 50 or older can save more money through their catch-up contributions. And if employees are aged 60 to 63, they can save even more with a higher catch up contribution of $11,250.

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National Treasury Employees Union sues Trump administration

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

A federal union is suing the Trump administration for not handing over a list of employees that agencies might be targeting to remove their job protections. The new lawsuit from the National Treasury Employees Union alleges that the Office of Personnel Management violated the Freedom of Information Act by not providing those details. The union’s legal action comes after the Trump administration earlier this year revived an effort to make large portions of the federal workforce at-will and easier to fire.

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Lawmakers looking to save Navy Reserve Center system

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

A bipartisan group of lawmakers is trying to save the Navy Reserve Center system. They say THE provision in the Senate version of the fiscal 2026 defense policy bill would shutter 107 commands that provide administrative support and serve as home for approximately 48,000 Navy reservists across the country. In a letter to the House and Senate Armed Services committees, the lawmakers said if the Navy has issues with the current force structure, the service should identify those issues, present them to Congress along with their plans to fix them.

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Federal government gets up and running after record length shutdown

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

With the shutdown now officially over, the White House isn't waiting to get things back and running. The Office of Management and Budget issued a memorandum instructing federal employees who had been furloughed to return to work today, and to take all necessary steps to ensure that offices open in a prompt and orderly manner. The Government Publishing Office even took to X to direct all teammates they should report to their duty stations and contact supervisors with questions.

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Transgender Air Force and Space Force service members sue the Trump administration

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Transgender Air Force and Space Force service members are suing the Trump administration for rescinding pensions that had been previously granted by the Air Force secretary. President Trump issued an executive order in January that banned transgender people from serving in the military. In June, the Air Force approve retirement orders for the Airmen named in the lawsuit, but two months later the service reversed the course, informing Airmen, each with at least 15 years of service, that they would be separated without retirement benefits under the ban. The lawsuit argues that revoking those retirement orders violates Air Force policies and procedures. Transgender service members affected by this will lose an estimated $1 to $2 million over the course of their lifetimes, the lawsuit says. It will also strip them of lifetime access to TRICARE health coverage.

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It’s officially Open Season for the Federal Employees Health Benefits program

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Open Season has officially begun. Enrollees in the Federal Employees Health Benefits program have between now and December 8th to make changes to their health plan options. The open enrollment period also applies for Postal Service employees, as well as those with dental and vision coverage. For plan year 2026, federal employees’ health insurance premiums are rising by an average of 12%.

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Treasury Department officially suspends Direct File

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The Treasury Department is officially suspending Direct File, a free, online tax filing platform the IRS launched last year. The department says it’s exploring alternatives. That includes strengthening its partnership with tax preparation companies through its Free File program. Direct File expanded to 25 states during this year’s filing season and saw higher favorability scores. But Treasury says the program cost too much and didn’t see enough usage to keep scaling it up. It says the IRS spent more than $40 million on Direct File this year. That breaks down to nearly $140 for every return submitted using Direct File.

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A new bill would require agencies to disclose when AI replaces a federal job

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Agencies would be required to disclose when artificial intelligence replaces a federal job under a bipartisan bill in the Senate. Senators Mark Warner and Josh Hawley announced the AI-Related Job Impacts Clarity Act yesterday. The bill would require major companies and agencies to report AI-related job effects, including layoffs and job displacement, to the Labor Department. Labor would also be required to compile data on AI-related job effects and publish a report to Congress and the public. The legislation comes amid rising concerns about AI’s impact on the job market.

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Republican lawmaker raises concerns about funding Federal Employees Health Benefits program

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:30:00 -0000

As Open Season approaches, one Republican is raising concerns about funding for the Federal Employees Health Benefits program. Oklahoma Senator James Lankford is questioning the Office of Personnel Management on how it plans to avoid exhausting the FEHB’s trust fund. He says it’s a concern, since there aren’t any incoming contributions to the trust fund under the government shutdown. In response to Lankford’s questions, OPM said that if needed, it would be able to let health carriers request additional funding from contingency reserves. But for the time being, OPM says all FEHB plans have sufficient funds to pay claims.

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All 15 TSP funds post positive returns in October

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Funds in the Thrift Savings Plan continue bring back strong returns month over month. In October, all 15 funds increased over their September numbers. The C and I funds were the top earners, returning 2.34% and 2.13%, respectively in October. The G, F and L income fund were the only funds to garner returns of less than 1%. Year to date, 13 of 15 funds are returning more than 10% with the I fund coming in at just over 28%.

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Colorado’s Attorney General sues Trump Administration over Space Command relocation

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Colorado’s attorney general is suing the Trump administration over its decision to move U.S. Space Command headquarters from Colorado Springs to Huntsville, Alabama. Attorney General Phil Weiser filed the lawsuit last week, arguing the president’s move is unconstitutional and violates federal law requiring notices and reports to Congress before relocating a major military headquarters. Weiser said President Donald Trump openly admitted the move was meant to punish Colorado for its mail-in voting system. The lawsuit also names Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Department of the Air Force and Air Force Secretary Troy Meink as plaintiffs.

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Plans to keep the FBI headquarters in D.C. are moving ahead in Congress

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:30:00 -0000

Plans to keep the FBI’s new headquarters in the District of Columbia are moving ahead in Congress. Republicans on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee advanced the Trump administration’s proposal to move the FBI to the Ronald Reagan Building just blocks away from the crumbling J. Edgar Hoover Building. The Biden administration planned to relocate the FBI headquarters to Greenbelt, Maryland.

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The government shutdown takes a $7 billion toll on the U.S. economy, so far

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The second-longest government shutdown is projected to put a toll on the U-S economy. The Congressional Budget Office expects the shutdown will take a $7 billion hit to the economy, so far. That sum would climb to $14 billion if it drags on for another month. About 750,000 federal employees are currently furloughed and many others are working without pay.

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The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board reminds feds about loan options

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board is reminding federal employees of their current options for loans. All loans from the Thrift Savings Plan remain in good standing during a government shutdown, even if participants don’t make payments on time. The TSP board has also received recent feedback from participants on its loan program, with some calling it a “true lifesaver.” Others say the TSP loan and withdrawal options have relieved at least some of their stress. TSP operations continue as usual during an appropriations lapse, since the TSP board is not funded by Congress.

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Government shutdown puts SBA loans on hold

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The government shutdown is putting loans from the Small Business Administration on hold. SBA estimates that $170 million in loans have been paused each day. That adds up to more than $4.5 billion dollars over the length of the shutdown. SBA paid out more than $45 billion in loans to 85,000 small business in fiscal 2025. That’s a record high for the agency.

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Air Force opening up unused land for private AI centers

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Department of the Air Force is opening up its unused land across five military bases to private companies to build artificial intelligence centers. A request for lease proposals posted last week follows President Donald Trump’s executive order to use federally owned land and resources to quickly build AI data centers. In addition, the Air Force said the service “cannot afford to disregard or discount the value of any asset, and must optimize the real and potential value of those assets.” Each project must be valued at more than $500 million and require at least 100 megawatts of power to qualify. Companies can lease property on Air Force bases in Tennessee, California, Arizona, New Jersey and Georgia. The government can purchase services and power from the centers but it’s not required to do so. Proposals are due by November 14.

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Number of federal employees exiting government this year continues to grow

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The number of federal employees exiting the government this year continues to grow. The Partnership for Public Service has added thousands more to its running tally of how many feds have left their jobs since January. The latest estimate surpasses 211,000 employees who are either already gone, or who may exit soon. The organization says the increase comes from the layoffs agencies announced earlier this month ... although those are being temporarily blocked. There were also some updated numbers on how many Defense Department personnel have taken a deferred resignation.

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VA Secretary warns more staff to be furloughed if shutdown continues

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The vast majority of employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs keep working during a government shutdown. But VA Secretary Doug Collins says more than 30,000 of the department’s employees have been furloughed. That’s about double what the VA outlined in its latest contingency plans. Collins says the VA will have to furlough more staff from VA’s central office next week if the shutdown continues. He’s calling on Democratic lawmakers to pass a stopgap spending bill to end the shutdown.

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Government shutdown takes toll on air traffic controllers

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The current shutdown is taking a toll on air traffic controllers. In response to a recent union survey, 700 employees working in air traffic control jobs detailed stories of financial difficulties, like turning to local food banks, canceling medical treatments and seeking part-time jobs. The Professional Aviation Safety Specialists union, or “PASS,” says those hardships can carry over into the workday. The longer the shutdown goes, the more air traffic controllers feel their anxiety and stress levels rise. The union warns that can be a big distraction on the job.

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Hawaii, Alaska and New Mexico among states hardest hit by government shutdown

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Hawaii, Alaska and New Mexico are among the states being hit hardest by the partial government shutdown. A new report by WalletHub, a personal finance company, ranked the impact of the shutdown across all 50 states and Washington D.C., across five key metrics, including each state’s share of federal jobs to federal contract dollars per capita to national park access. WalletHub found Washington, D.C. is being impacted the most with a score of 76.33 out of 100, as 25% of all jobs are related the government. Hawaii and New Mexico earned scores of 71 each, respectively. Minnesota, Indiana and Iowa are the three states at the bottom of the list, scoring 15 or below out of 100.

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House Judiciary Cmte Democrats launch new federal watchdogs website

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

House Judiciary Committee Democrats have launched a new website for federal watchdogs. That comes after the Trump administration pulled funding for the Council on Inspectors General for Integrity and Efficiency. CIGIE had provided website infrastructure services for at least 28 inspectors general offices. The Judiciary committee’s website provides report repository and hotline contact information for IG offices that relied on CIGIE’s funding. Many of the IG offices have set up temporary websites while Democrats in Congress have pressed the White House to restore CIGIE’s funding.

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More resources are popping up for federal employees during the shutdown

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

More resources for federal employees during the shutdown are continuing to pop up. Several credit unions are offering no-fee loans to furloughed federal employees. Local food banks are offering options for those who may need it. And feds who have been laid off this year can also get a $2,000 loan – with no fees and no interest – from the Federal Employees Education and Assistance Fund. The offerings come as hundreds of thousands of federal employees face missed paychecks for the foreseeable future. Civilian feds received a partial paycheck late last week – it will be their last payday until the shutdown ends.

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Lawmakers demand White House ensure back pay for furloughed employees

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Democrats are demanding that the White House follow a 2019 law to ensure back pay for furloughed employees after the government shutdown. In a letter to the Office of Management and Budget, House and Senate lawmakers wrote that the law is clear: Furloughed employees are owed back pay, just as excepted employees are. The letter comes after OMB questioned whether the law actually guaranteed pay for furloughed feds. OMB’s legal opinion, though, quickly received backlash from lawmakers, unions and other employee organizations.

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Army Human Resources Command develops internal AI chatbox

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Army’s Human Resources Command has developed an internal AI chatbot called “Ask HR” — the chatbot will enter beta testing once the government is funded. The bot has access to Army regulations, Military Personnel Messages and other HR data, which allows soldiers to quickly find information. The new tool is part of a broader effort to create a “digital front door” for human resources, which combines the Army’s existing call center and online services to improve the overall soldier experience. Army officials also said they are also exploring the use of generative AI to identify talent more quickly and improve officer retention.

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Lawsuit challenging Trump administration’s shutdown layoffs faces a judge

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Plaintiffs in a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s latest mass layoffs will make their case to a federal judge tomorrow. The administration sent RIF notices to more than 4,000 federal employees last week. Government employee unions say reduction-in-force procedures are normally prohibited during a shutdown and that the Trump administration gave unlawful orders to exempt RIF activities. The Supreme Court this summer allowed the Trump administration to proceed with earlier mass layoffs across the federal workforce.

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Pentagon offers VIP treatment for service members released over COVID vaccine

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The Pentagon is making the reinstatement process smoother for service members who were booted from the military over the COVID vaccine. In a new memo, the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness said applicants seeking reinstatement now receive special-category VIP treatment. That includes notifying commanders in advance of their arrival, getting priority processing at Military Entrance Processing Stations and an assigned escort to expedite their screening. In addition, the department will proactively review personnel records and discharge characterizations for service members involuntarily separated solely due to COVID-19 vaccine refusal.

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Federal retirement claims drop in September

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The number of federal employees filing retirement claims in September was the lowest all year. Just over 6,300 employees submitted their retirement paperwork to the Office of Personnel Management. At the same time, OPM also processed the fewest number of current claims in September, just over 7,900. Despite the lower number of claims, OPM says it took six days longer, on average, in September than in August to process claims. The current retirement claims backlog is at 23,500, which dropped for the fourth straight month.

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The number of TSP millionaires continues to grow

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The number of so-called TSP millionaires is continuing to go up. As of October 1st, nearly 190,000 participants in the Thrift Savings Plan have accounts totaling over $1 million. That’s about 2.6 percent of all TSP accounts across the board. It also means roughly 19,000 more feds have crossed the million-dollar threshold in the last three months. Most TSP millionaires have spent decades investing in their accounts.

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Senate Democrats charge DOGE is putting federal data at risk

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Senate Democrats are charging the Department of Government Efficiency is putting federal data at risk at the Social Security Administration, the General Services Administration and the Office of Personnel Management. In a new report, Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), ranking member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, says staff investigations and whistleblower accounts show how DOGE personnel are working without any accountability to agency leadership, Congressional oversight or the public. For example, Peters says despite an SSA risk assessment warning of an up to a 65% chance of catastrophic breach, the data remains in systems without any verified security controls. Peters called on SSA, GSA and OPM to immediately halt DOGE operations and access to information systems given the risk of a serious data breach.

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White House economic advisors warn of economic spillover effect of government shutdown

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The White House is warning of the potential for spillover effects into the broader economy because of the government shutdown, now entering its second week. The White House's Council of Economic Advisers says calculations based on the number of federal employees and federal contractors not being paid imply that a month-long shutdown would reduce consumer spending by $30 billion. The CEA says approximately half of which would directly be due to federal employees and contractors not working and half would be due to spillover effects on other sectors. More broadly, CEA says delays in agency processes ranging from small business loans to export licenses approvals to awarding federal contracts also would negatively impact the U.S. economy.

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Federal unions say the current government shutdown is like no other

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employee unions are moving against an unprecedented actions during a government shutdown

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TSP participants are still seeing strong gains in all funds

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Thrift Savings Plan continues its run of month-over-month gains.

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With the possibility now of more RIFS during the shutdown, the Trump administration faces another lawsuit from federal employee unions

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration is facing another lawsuit — this time, for telling agencies to conduct more reductions in force.

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The possibility of a shutdown has some in Congress wondering, what services will remain active?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with the government on the brink of a partial shutdown, one senator is pushing the Trump administration to be more transparent about what agency services will remain open should funding lapse.

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The White House officially makes implementing AI to solve federal workforce issues a top priority

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House is officially making AI one of its science and technology priorities.

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Federal agencies will post their own contingency plans

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The White House says the public will have to look at each individual agency to find out their plans for what would happen in a government shutdown. The Office of Management and Budget’s webpage which normally publishes shutdown contingency plans remained empty for months. But now, OMB says that agencies’ plans will only be available one by one, on each agency’s own website. Those contingency plans cover how many federal employees would continue working — with or without pay — during a possible shutdown.

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The National Guard surpasses its recruiting goals for fiscal 2025

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The National Guard has surpassed its recruiting goals for fiscal 2025. The Army and Air National Guard have enlisted nearly 50,000 new members this year, bringing total Guard end strength to more than 433,000. Senior leaders attributed this year’s success to initiatives such as the Future Soldier Preparatory Course and the new “Uncommon is Calling” marketing campaign for helping attract new members. Army Col. Timothy Smith also praised recruiters across every state, three territories, and the District of Columbia for helping the Guard meet its recruitment goals.

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Agencies brace for a potential government shutdown

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Agencies are bracing for a potential government shutdown, with less than a week left for Congress to reach a spending agreement. But so far, agencies have not released any public plans for what would happen in a shutdown. Agencies are supposed to release contingency plans, detailing which employees would keep working, and who would be furloughed. Currently, though, the White House’s website for listing those plans is blank. The Trump administration removed previous contingency plans that agencies had compiled during a shutdown threat last year.

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Army rolls out new incentive to keep technical experts

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Army is rolling out a new incentive to keep some of its most experienced technical experts in uniform. A warrant officer retention bonus will offer a “substantial financial incentive” to officers in critical specialties who commit to additional years of service. High-demand fields like cyber operations, aviation maintenance, signal and communications and special operations are identified as priorities for the program. Lt. Col. Angie Chipman, chief of the Army retention division at the Pentagon, said, The Army is addressing its most pressing retention challenges and ensuring its ability to meet future operational demands by focusing on these fields.”

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Lawmakers push to expand hazard pay for federal wildland firefighters

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 11:31:00 -0000

There is a push in Congress to expand the use of hazard pay for federal wildland firefighters. Utah Congresswoman Celeste Maloy has introduced a bill attempting to correct what she says is a gap in the benefit. Currently, wildland firefighters receive higher pay rates, called hazard pay, when fighting active fires. But hazard pay doesn’t apply to situations where firefighters are conducting prescribed burns or doing training jumps. Maloy says firefighters face similar hazards in those additional situations — but their pay rates don’t currently match the risk.

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The Senate confirms nearly 50 of Trump’s nominees

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Yesterday’s Senate vote confirming nearly 50 of the president’s nominees included some big gains for the Army — filling most of that service’s senior political leadership posts all at once. Among those confirmed was Michael Obadal as the new under secretary of the Army, the service’s number-two civilian leadership position. The en-bloc vote also included confirmations for three Army assistant secretaries: William Gillis as the assistant secretary for energy, installations and environment, Jules Hurst as the assistant secretary for manpower and reserve affairs, and Brent Ingraham as the assistant secretary for acquisition, logistics and technology.

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Interior and Agriculture departments set to combine wildland firefighting forces

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The departments of Interior and Agriculture say they are on track to combine their wildland firefighting forces into a single agency by January 2026. The announcement this week comes after President Trump ordered the two departments to consolidate their wildfire response efforts into a single agency: the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. An employee organization called the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters says the effort is a step in the right direction, but is urging congressional action to make lasting changes for federal firefighters.

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House passed NDAA restore union rights for Defense civilians

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Congress is considering exempting some federal employees from losing their union protections. The version of the fiscal 2026 National Defense Authorization Act that cleared the House would let DoD civilian workers keep their collective bargaining rights. The provision in the House’s NDAA comes in response to President Trump’s broad cancelation of collective bargaining earlier this year. The proposed exemption for DoD civilian employees, however, is not contained in the Senate’s version of the NDAA. The American Federation of Government Employees is calling on senators this week to include the same exemption in their companion bill.

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Watchdog finds DoD did not have sufficient data about Global Household Goods contract

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

A government watchdog found that the Department of Defense’s Transportation Command did not have sufficient and comprehensive data about its Global Household Goods contract, which was canceled in June. The Government Accountability Office found that TRANSCOM officials were aware of the contractor’s capability constraints, but had limited information and could not verify whether the company could handle the volume of moves. The watchdog also said the Defense Department did not gather or track comprehensive feedback from service members going through military moves, which limited contractor performance assessment. In addition, TRANSCOM did not have full information regarding costs associated with the contract transition.

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Lawmakers call on ICE to halt use of facial recognition application

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Nine Senate Democrats are calling on Immigration and Customs Enforcement to halt its use of a mobile facial recognition application. In a letter to ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, the lawmakers ask for more details on ICE’s Mobile Fortify app. The technology reportedly allows ICE to identify individuals they encounter on the streets using multiple federal databases. The Senate lawmakers say ICE should answer questions about whether it’s using the app to surveil protestors and whether the agency is integrating commercial data into the technology.

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Federal pay caps continue to challenge recruitment and retention efforts

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Federal pay caps are contributing to ongoing recruitment and retention challenges in the Defense Department’s blue-collar workforce. A new report from the Government Accountability Office has found that multiple DoD installations are struggling to keep employees in the Federal Wage System, due to longstanding pay limitations set by Congress. GAO also pointed to evidence that the pay rates for blue-collar federal employees have deviated from pay rates in the larger labor market, making it even harder for DoD to compete with the private sector.

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House passes its version of 2026 defense policy bill

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The House passed its version of the 2026 defense policy bill, which includes a 3.8% pay bump for service members. House Republicans pushed the bill through largely without Democratic support after adding conservative provisions and blocking debates Democrats sought on issues like expanding the use of the military inside the country. House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith, who voted against the bill, said the GOP included “countless partisan amendments” and “silenced debate of critical issues.” The annual legislation also includes sweeping acquisition reforms aimed at changing how the Pentagon does business. The Senate is expected to pass its version of the defense bill later this week.

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Pentagon publishes final rule implementing CMMC

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Pentagon has published the final acquisition rule implementing the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program. The rule, released in yesterday’s Federal Register will allow Defense Department procurements to include CMMC assessment requirements. The assessments are intended to ensure defense contractors are following cybersecurity standards for protecting controlled unclassified information. The Pentagon estimates 80,000 defense contractors may be required to obtain a CMMC assessment. Officials plan to phase in the requirements over a three-year period.

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Federal retirement claims processing times increase

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees, on average, are waiting longer to see their retirement applications processed. New data from the Office of Personnel Management for August shows it takes an average of 70 days to process a claim from a retiring fed. But if retirement claims are coming to OPM in less than 60 days, those cases take, on average, 45 days to complete. At the same time, OPM received more than 9,400 retirement claims last month. OPM's backlog of retirement claims dropped by 2,000 to 24,300.

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Energy dept sued over plan to purge FOIA requests

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Energy Department is being sued over its plan to purge old Freedom of Information Act requests. The nonprofit group American Oversight filed the suit in U.S. District Court last week. It challenges DOE’s effort to require individuals to re-confirm their interest in FOIA requests. In an August notice in the Federal Register, DOE announced that those with a FOIA request submitted prior to October 1, 2024, must email the agency within 30 days to keep the request open. American Oversight argues the move violates the law and would open the door for other agencies to sidestep their obligations under FOIA.

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Department of Health and Human Services employees call for RFK Jr.’s resignation

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees at the Department of Health and Human Services are calling for the resignation of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. A letter signed by more than 1,000 HHS workers warns that Kennedy’s actions this year have endangered the nation’s health. Most recently, Kennedy fired the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The employees say the secretary has also been spreading inaccurate health information. Earlier this year, HHS laid off thousands of employees in a reduction in force.

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House Homeland Security Cmte looks to reform the Cybersecurity Sharing Act

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The House Homeland Security Committee wants to reauthorize and reform the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015. The law expires at the end of this month. On Wednesday, the committee passed a bill that would extend the law for another 10 years. It would also update the law to account for advances in artificial intelligence and require the Department of Homeland Security to improve its outreach on emerging cyber threats. The bill is advancing in the House, but its path forward in the Senate remains unclear as the law’s expiration nears.

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Positive results for Thrift Saving Plan funds in August

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

All 16 funds in the Thrift Savings Plan posted positive results in August. New data from the Federal Thrift Investment Retirement Board shows that the S fund had the largest month over month increase of just over 4%, while the I fund also continued its strong performance. Every fund is positive year-to-date with 11 funds posting double digit returns for 2025. The I fund continues to earn the biggest returns with a 21.5% gain for this year while all the L funds are seeing returns over 10% over the last eight months.

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Departments of Justice and Homeland Security team up to enforce trade laws

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security are teaming up to enforce compliance with trade laws. DHS and DoJ have launched a Trade Fraud Task Force to pursue enforcement actions those who try to evade tariffs and other duties. The cross-agency group will rely on the Tariff Act of 1930, the False Claims Act, and Title 18’s trade fraud and conspiracy provisions. The task force is asking for tips from any domestic industries that are harmed by unfair trade practices and trade fraud.

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The ruling to end federal collective bargaining agreements isn't quite over yet

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

An appeals court might be reconsidering its recent decision that sided with the Trump administration in orders to terminate federal union contracts. One of the judges on that appeals court panel has called for a vote to decide whether to re-hear arguments in a lawsuit against the White House’s orders. The American Federation of Government Employees is suing the administration, arguing that Trump’s directive to end collective bargaining retaliates against unions that have exercised their First Amendment rights. Attorneys for AFGE and the Trump administration have until Sept. 15 to submit arguments on whether or not the case should be re-heard.

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CISA warns about another China-linked cyber espionage campaign

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is warning about another China-linked cyber espionage campaign. In a joint advisory yesterday, CISA and partner agencies said Chinese state-sponsored actors are exploiting vulnerabilities in routers used by telecommunications providers and other infrastructure operators. They say the campaign’s goal is to gain long-term access to critical infrastructure networks around the world. The advisory includes several recommendations to guard against the hacking spree. The threat groups highlighted in the advisory include Salt Typhoon and other advanced persistent threat actors.

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Veterans Affairs says it has guaranteed 29 million home loans for service members

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Veterans Affairs says it’s now guaranteed 29 million home loans for service members and veterans. That’s more than $4 trillion dollars in loans issued over the history of the program. More than four million service members and veterans have active home loans guaranteed by the VA. The department’s Home Loan Guaranty Program began in 1944 as part of the G.I. Bill of Rights

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Lawmaker calls for an independent review of cybersecurity in the U.S. courts system

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

After a high-profile hack, Senator Ron Wyden is calling for an independent review of cybersecurity in the U.S. courts system. In a letter to Chief Justice John Roberts, Wyden says the federal Judiciary has fallen short in protecting its sensitive IT systems. He pointed to a recent intrusion of the courts’ case management system. Hackers reportedly took advantage of vulnerabilities that were brought to light five years ago after a separate hack of the case management system. Wyden says Roberts should commission a National Academy of Sciences review of the two security incidents.

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House Democrats raise alarm about USDA relocation and reorganization plans

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

House committee Democrats are raising alarms about the Agriculture Department’s relocation and reorganization plans. In a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, lawmakers from the Education and Workforce Committee warned that USDA’s plans would lead to worsening services. They’re calling on Rollins to explain the rationale for relocating thousands of USDA employees in the D.C. area. They’re also pressing for answers on which, if any, officials or stakeholders USDA consulted with before moving forward with its plans.

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Senate sets date for vote on 2026 defense policy bill

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Senate will vote on its version of the 2026 defense policy bill on Sept. 2. The House has not yet scheduled a floor vote on its version of the National Defense Authorization Act, though the House Committee on Rules has set an Aug. 28 deadline for lawmakers to file NDAA amendments. The Senate bill authorizes nearly $925 billion for national defense, while the House version aligns with the White House’s $883 billion request. Congress has passed the NDAA every year for the past 64 years.

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A new House bill would reverse cut to FEMA

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

A new House bill would reverse cuts at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The FEMA Critical Staffing Act would require the agency to reinstate employees fired under the Trump administration. It would also require FEMA to bring back the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program and the flood mitigation assistance program. The bill is being sponsored by several House Democrats. It comes as Congress and the Trump administration consider broader reforms to FEMA.

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Federal employee travel rates remain steady in 2026

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Federal employees traveling for business will not see an increase in the rates the government will pay for hotels, meals and incidentals in fiscal 2026. The General Services Administration says the per diem rates for the continental United States will stay the same for next fiscal year. GSA says the decision not to increase the rates reflects the government’s commitment to being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars, ensuring that federal funds are utilized appropriately, cost-effectively and for core mission-related activities. The standard rate applies to most of CONUS, which for lodging is $110 dollars. There are 296 non-standard areas with individual rates that are higher than the standard rate. The meals and incidental rates range from $59 to $92.

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The Air Force pauses some PCS moves due to personnel budget shortfalls

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The Air Force has paused some permanent change of station moves due to personnel budget shortfalls. It’s unclear how many Airmen are affected, but the delay only applies to moves within the United States and does not impact Space Force Guardians, reservists, Guard members, and Airmen relocating overseas. Earlier this spring, the service also delayed issuing some retirement and separation orders due to similar budget constraints. In May, the Defense Department instructed the service branches to develop a plan to reduce permanent change of station “discretionary move” budgets.

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Veterans Affairs employees protesting across the country over Trump administration changes

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Employees from the Department of Veterans Affairs are rallying across the country today in protest of the Trump administration’s changes to the VA. The agency workers, who are represented by a range of federal unions, warn that staffing reductions and erosion of collective bargaining at the VA will hurt the agency’s ability to support veterans. The rallies come after the VA canceled virtually all of its union contracts last week. VA union members are gathering in more than 10 cities today to sound the alarm and press the Trump administration to reverse course.

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Veterans Affairs sets new record for disability and pension claims processing

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:30:00 -0000

Veterans Affairs is setting a new record for the number of disability and pension claims processed in a single year. The VA has gone through more than two and a half million claims so far in fiscal 2025, surpassing last year’s total. The department says it’s shrunk the claims backlog by 37% since President Donald Trump took office. The backlog increased under the Biden administration when more veterans became eligible for VA benefits under the toxic-exposure PACT Act.

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Federal appeals court gives DOGE access to sensitive data as several agencies

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

A federal appeals court is giving the Department of Government Efficiency access to sensitive data at several agencies. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit overturned a lower court’s ruling that barred DOGE from accessing records at the Treasury Department … the Education Department … and the Office of Personnel Management. Appeals court judges ruling in favor of DOGE cited a recent Supreme Court ruling … that allowed DOGE officials access to Social Security Administration data on millions of Americans.

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Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts looks to strengthen cyber protections

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Administrative Office of the United States Courts says it’s strengthening cyber protections after hackers hit the Judiciary's electronic case management system. The Judiciary says most documents are already available to the public, but that it’s putting in place more rigorous procedures to restrict access to sensitive documents under carefully controlled and monitored circumstances. Politico reported last week that a sweeping cyber intrusion may have exposed sensitive court data across multiple U.S. states.

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Federal employees’ COVID vaccine statuses removed from personnel documents

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Federal employees’ COVID-19 vaccination status will soon no longer appear on their personnel documents. The Trump administration is directing agencies to scrub vaccination information from federal HR files. That includes erasing any instances of employees not complying with vaccine mandates, or requesting exemptions from any mandates. The Office of Personnel Management says no information related to vaccines can be used in decisions on hiring, promotions, discipline or terminations.

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House Democrats push for details on USDA’s relocation plans

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0000

House Democrats are pushing for details on the Department of Agriculture’s major relocation plans. The lawmakers say testimony from USDA leadership last month did not clarify how well the agency had planned ahead before announcing the relocations. The agency also failed to estimate how many employees would leave their jobs as a result of the move, according to the Congress members. In a letter to USDA, the Democrats requested the agency turn over all documents and communications related to the relocation plans.

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OPM sees increase in federal retirement claims processing

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Federal employees submitting their retirement paperwork may have to wait longer to get their claims processed. The Office of Personnel Management reported that during July, it took the agency 59 days, on average, to process a federal employee’s retirement package from start to finish. That’s two weeks longer, on average, than it took OPM to work through cases in June. Another 8,300 federal employees sent their retirement paperwork to OPM last month. All combined, that adds up to nearly 37,000 feds who have submitted a retirement claim since April.

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A new bill looks to enhance whistleblower protections for FBI employees

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

There’s a growing effort in Congress to enhance whistleblower protections for FBI employees. A new bill from Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, if enacted, would expand several portions of the existing whistleblower protections at the FBI. For one, the legislation would protect FBI agents who appeal adverse personnel decisions. The bill would also secure protections for agents who cooperate in whistleblower investigations. Grassley says his bill comes in response to what he described as whistleblower retaliation during the Biden administration.

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Defense Department plans for more reductions in staff

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Defense Department is planning on reorganizing and reducing the size of the staff that supports the Defense Technical Information Center or DTIC. The Pentagon says through a reduction-in-force effort, DTIC will cut 40 civilian positions. It expects the RIF notices to go out by August 25. Additionally, Silvana Rubino-Hallman, who is the acting administrator of DTIC, will conduct a zero-based core mission review for all contractor personnel augmenting DTIC staff and will direct contracting officers to issue any stop-work-orders as appropriate. DoD expects the RIF and reorganization to save more than $25 million per year.

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July was a good month for most TSP funds

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Federal employees saw their retirements account grow across 14 of 16 funds in the Thrift Savings Plan in July. But the rate of growth for most of the funds was under 1% as compared to June. New data from TSP shows only the S and C funds increased month over month by more than 1%. Only two of the funds, F and I, ended up lower in July than in June, but again only by less than 1%. For the year, every fund is showing positive returns with the I fund leading the way with a return of almost 17%.

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Veterans Affairs is getting a new permanent watchdog

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Veterans Affairs is getting a new permanent watchdog. The Senate confirmed senior VA advisor Cheryl Mason to serve as the next VA inspector general. President Trump fired the last VA inspector general, Michael Missal, in January along with 16 other agency IGs. Mason previously served as the first woman to chair the Board of Veterans Appeals.

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It’s National Whistleblower Day and OSC is recognizing some public servants

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:30:00 -0000

In honor of National Whistleblower Day, the Office of Special Counsel is recognizing two federal employees with outstanding public servant awards. The two whistleblowers who earned this year’s award come from the Mine Safety and Health Administration. The employees had reported over 50 active mines in the Pacific that hadn’t been inspected since 2016 due to a clerical error. From the whistleblowers’ actions, it became clear the agency had incorrectly classified the mines as abandoned and inaccurately reported complete inspections. OSC’s whistleblower awards are issued each year in celebration of the first whistleblower protection law, dating back to 1778.

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is getting new leadership

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is getting new permanent leadership. The Senate confirmed President Donald Trump’s pick Susan Monarez to serve as CDC director. She’ll be the CDC’s first director without a medical degree in more than 70 years. CDC laid off about 2,400 employees in April. But the agency reinstated about a third of them.

Nearly 600 employees took voluntary incentives to leave the agency and will be off its rolls by the end of the year.

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TSA seeks private sector solutions to enhance airport security and passenger experience

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Transportation Security Administration wants to use artificial intelligence and other private sector technologies to streamline airport screening. Under a recent request for information, TSA asked for feedback on turnkey solutions that could be used at airport checkpoints. The deadline to respond is August 1. The RFI was issued through TSA’s Screening Partnership Program, which allows airports to contract for private security screening services. TSA says it’s particularly interested in tech that can reduce manual labor and improve the passenger experience.

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TSP closes out June with just over $1 trillion in assets

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:05:00 -0000

The Thrift Savings Plan closed out the month of June with just over $1 trillion dollars in assets, across 7.2 million TSP participants. Officials on the TSP board say that high number shows a strong level of trust among participants in the TSP. Board officials are also reporting high levels of satisfaction among TSP participants. For the last 12 months, more than 93% of TSP users have consistently said they’re satisfied with the TSP's offerings. Satisfaction among callers to the TSP’s customer service phone line also remain high.

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A bill to expand non-VA health care for veterans is advancing through Congress

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:02:00 -0000

A bill expanding veterans’ access to non-VA health care is making its way through Congress. The House VA Committee advanced the Veterans' ACCESS Act. The bill would make it easier for veterans covered by the VA to seek heath care in the private sector and would create an online patient self-service scheduling system. Committee Chairman Mike Bost says the bill would help veterans avoid waiting for medical appointments.

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National Science Foundation employees push back against Trump administration’s plans

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:01:00 -0000

Employees at the National Science Foundation are pushing back against the Trump administration’s actions at the agency. Nearly 150 NSF employees signed a letter of dissent this week. They’re criticizing the administration’s terminations of agency workers, while also cutting appropriated funding. Altogether, the NSF employees warn that the administration’s actions amount to a “systemic dismantling” of the scientific agency. NSF’s letter mirrors similar efforts from employees at NASA, the Environmental Protection Agency and several others.

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Trump administration ordered to restore Public Apportionment database

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The Office of Management and Budget has until Wednesday to turn the lights back on for one of its key public spending transparency websites. In March, OMB shut down its Congressionally-mandated database that tracks the apportionment of funds to individual agencies, saying it didn’t believe it should have to provide “predecisional” information. On Monday, a federal judge found that decision violated the law, and gave the Trump administration until 10 a.m. on Wednesday to restore the Public Apportionments Database.

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GAO releases its annual FraudNet program report

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 11:30:00 -0000

The Government Accountability Office processed more than 5,700 allegations through its fraud hotline last year. That’s according to the latest annual report on GAO’s FraudNet program. FraudNet referred more than 2,100 allegations to federal agencies or other entities for further investigation, roughly the same number of referrals as in 2023. FraudNet analysts also supported more than 50 requests from GAO teams conducting audits and investigations. That includes helping GAO identify healthcare providers who were ineligible to work for the Defense Department’s TRICARE Network.

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ICE is offering up to $50,000 signing bonus for retired employees to return to the job

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 11:01:00 -0000

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is offering retired ICE employees as much as a $50,000 signing bonus to return to the job. The agency is recruiting both deportation officers and special agents. ICE received $8 billion under the Big Beautiful Bill to hire 10,000 new officers over the next four years. ICE says it has a Dual Compensation Waiver to hire retired annuitants on a term-limited basis. Re-employed annuitants will receive both their full basic annuity and full salary. But annuity supplements and Social Security benefits may be reduced depending on an individual’s salary.

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Trump administration creates new classification for non-career employees

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The Trump administration is creating a new classification for non-career employees. President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing Schedule G that would let agencies hire non-career employees who engage in policy-making or policy-advocating work. These employees would leave their position when the president's term is over. The EO says Schedule G will improve operations, particularly in agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs, by streamlining appointments for key policy roles. Current authorities under Schedule C or the new Schedule Policy/Career do not provide for non-career appointments to policy-making or policy-advocating roles. The White House says this leaves a gap in federal hiring categories.

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Salt Typhoon hackers compromise a state's Army National Guard network

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:30:00 -0000

Hackers connected to China extensively compromised a U.S. state’s Army National Guard network starting last March. That’s according to a June intelligence memo from the Department of Homeland Security. It details the “Salt Typhoon” group’s intrusion into National Guard networks and subsequent theft of sensitive data. DHS says Salt Typhoon’s successful hack could undermine National Guard’s efforts to protect American critical infrastructure. The group has been connected to intrusions into U.S. mobile networks and the hacking of dozens of high-profile U.S. officials.

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More than 13,400 feds submit retirement paperwork in June

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

June saw the third largest number of federal employees retire in calendar year 2025. More than 13,400 feds submitted their paperwork. At the same time, the average number of days to process retirement paperwork dropped to 45, the lowest number since February and the second lowest in the last 18 months. OPM’s backlog of retirement claims stands just over 26 thousand, the highest level since October 2023. In all, 70,351 employees retired in the first six months of 2025 as compared to 56,756 employees who left federal service during the first six months of 2024.

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The lead official on the effort to fix security clearances is retiring

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The head of the effort to fix the security clearance process is retiring. David Cattler, the director of the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency, is retiring after more than 35 years of federal service. Cattler will step down from his role on September 30th. He has been director of DCSA for almost 18 months. Before he retires, Cattler will complete a major reorganization of the agency, which will help further reduce the backlog of security clearances. As of May, DCSA says it has decreased the backlog by 17% in 2025 alone. Along with DCSA, Cattler served in various leadership roles in the intelligence community, including on the National Security Council, with the Defense Intelligence Agency and on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The agency says a successor has not yet be named.

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The number of TSP millionaires is on the rise

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The number of so-called TSP millionaires is on the rise. As of June, more than 171,000 participants in the Thrift Savings Plan have accounts totaling over $1 million. That’s a little over 2% of all TSP accounts across the board. It also means roughly 24,000 more feds have crossed the million-dollar threshold in the last three months. Most TSP millionaires have spent decades investing in their accounts.

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OPM details federal workforce changes in response to the President’s gender ideology order

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management has detailed the federal workplace changes that should already be in effect, in response to President Trump’s orders on “gender ideology” from January. Agencies were required to cancel any diversity-related training programs and disband employee resource groups that focused on gender inclusion. Federal employees also had to remove pronouns from their email signatures. The White House says the requirements are meant to combat what it calls “gender ideology extremism.” But advocates of diversity, equity and inclusion say the new policies are harmful to transgender and non-binary employees.

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A new fellowship looks at the impact of the Trump administration on the civil service

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Former federal employees have a new opportunity to study the Trump administration’s impacts on the civil service. The non-profit Democracy Forward has launched a new civil service fellowship program. Throughout the program’s inaugural year, fellows will be tasked with researching the impacts of the Trump administration’s cuts. It's currently seeking applicants with experience working in the federal government.

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Benefits update coming for Public sector retirees impacted by WEP and GPO

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Public sector retirees impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset should see their benefits fully updated by November. The majority of affected beneficiaries already began receiving their increased monthly benefit amounts in April. But the Social Security Administration says it’s still working through some of the more complex cases. The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law in early January, eliminated both the WEP and GPO. The two longstanding Social Security provisions had been reducing or eliminating benefits for many public sector annuitants.

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Trump administration extends governmentwide hiring freeze

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 01:36:54 -0000

Agencies will have to wait until another three months before they can start hiring employees again. The Trump administration has extended its governmentwide hiring freeze until mid-October. The freeze had previously been expected to lift next week. The hiring freeze doesn’t apply to military members, or civilian positions dealing with immigration enforcement, national security or public safety. It’s the White House’s second extension of the freeze since President Trump's order on his first day in office. By the time the freeze lifts, agencies will have been barred from hiring for nine months.

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FBI urged to step up protection of government officials from mobile cyber threats

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 21:22:09 -0000

The FBI is being urged to step up its efforts to protect government officials from mobile cyber threats. In a new letter to the bureau, Senator Ron Wyden says its current spyware guidance isn’t enough to protect against advanced cyber tools. He pointed to how spyware has been found on the phones of dozens of government employees.

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TSP posts higher returns across the board for June

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 14:09:19 -0000

Federal employees retirement savings grew at a healthy rate last month. New data from the Thrift Savings Plan shows all 15 funds saw higher rates of return in June as compared to May. Investors in the C and S funds were among biggest winners, seeing over a 5% rate of return for June. All the Lifecycle funds also posted a higher returns last month with the L 2055, L 2060 and L 2065 all seeing returns over 4.6%. Year to date, the big winner is the I Fund with a return rate of over 18%.

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Senate Republicans look to limit the size of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 22:01:32 -0000

Senate Republicans want to limit the size of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. A new bill led by Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton would cap ODNI at 650 full-time staff. ODNI started out the year with roughly 1,800 employees. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard says she has already reduced ODNI’s staff by roughly 25% since then. Cotton’s legislation would deepen the cuts by eliminating several ODNI organizations including the National Counterintelligence and Security Center and the National Intelligence University.

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SBA launches investigation into fraud in 8(a) business program

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 17:19:17 -0000

The Small Business Administration is launching an investigation into the 8(a) business development program seeking to root out possible fraud. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler ordered the full-scale audit after a Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation uncovered a years-long fraud and bribery scheme involving a former federal contracting officer and two 8(a) contractors. SBA's Office of General Contracting and Business Development will lead the audit, starting with reviewing high-dollar ad limited competition contracts. The review will go back 15 years and work with other agencies, which awarded 8(a) contracts. The Justice Department found recently $550 million in contracts were fraudulently steered through bribery and abuse of a U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) contracting officer, including to one 8(a) contractor who was officially flagged by USAID as lacking “honesty or integrity."

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A top official at U.S. Cyber Command is moving on

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:35:18 -0000

The Senate is moving closer to finalizing the GOP’s reconciliation bill. And a few provisions affecting federal employees remain on the table. One proposal that was partially struck down would have made new federal hires choose between at-will employment and a 10% increase in retirement contributions. But even after a decision from the Senate parliamentarian, the provision could still include a 5% across-the-board retirement contribution increase. The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association is urging lawmakers to remove the remaining federal workforce proposals, which it says will negatively impact employees.

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Bipartisan bill to revise rules for federal workers compensation advances out of committee

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 20:53:49 -0000

A bipartisan bill to revise the rules for federal workers’ compensation cases unanimously advanced out of a House committee this week. The legislation would revise the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act to allow physician assistants and nurse practitioners to treat feds in workers’ compensation cases. A previous version of the bill passed the House in 2022, but did not clear the Senate. Co-sponsors of the bill say they’re hopeful it will pass both chambers this Congress.

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Army turns to private sector to bolster its tech talent

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:34:14 -0000

The Army is turning to the private sector to bolster its tech talent. The service has launched a new website to recruit “top-tier, uniquely skilled” technology professionals into the Army Reserve. The effort follows the creation of Detachment 201, a new program where four senior executives from tech giants like Palantir, Meta and OpenAI were commissioned into the Reserve to help the service integrate and scale commercial technology. According to the website, these Detachment 201 officers will “contribute to accelerating Army modernization, evaluating technology adoption and advising on scalable solutions to enhance tactical innovation and lethality.” The website includes a form that tech professionals can fill out to express interest in Army Detachment 201.

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DoD employee arrested for removal of classified documents from Missile Defense Agency

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:16:45 -0000

The Justice Department has arrested a Defense Department employee for removing classified documents from a Missile Defense Agency office in Huntsville, Alabama. Ewa Ciszak made her initial appearance in federal court Monday. Beginning in February, the FBI says Ciszack began taking classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization. A June 18 search warrant turned up multiple secret-level documents at her personal residence and in her vehicle and backpack. Ciszak had been employed at MDA since January 2023.

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Lawmakers press Defense Secretary to reverse dismantling of Pentagon independent weapons testing office

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 11:51:10 -0000

A top lawmaker is pressing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to immediately reverse his decision to gut the Pentagon’s independent weapons testing office. In a letter to Hegseth, Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren is demanding documentation justifying the cuts, the office’s current oversight list, and how DoD is adhering to the statutory requirement for the office to be independent and whether the office will continue its cyber assessment program, In May, Hegseth instructed the director of operational test and evaluation office to “immediately eliminate any non-statutory” functions of the office, slashing the office’s staff by 74% and its budget by nearly 80%. Warren said cutting this deep into the office can violate the law.

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Democrats challenge Trump administration plan to shuffle parts of Education and Labor Departments

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:13:45 -0000

Democratic committee leaders are disputing the Trump administration’s plans to shuffle components of the Education Department into the Labor Department. A group of four senators say moving career and technical education programs between agencies is not within the President’s authority. The lawmakers reiterated that it’s up to Congress to decide whether federal agencies should be rearranged or dismantled. They’re demanding that the administration leave Education’s programs as-is, since Congress has not approved the transition.

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House and Senate look to eliminate IRS’s Direct File in reconciliation bill

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 03:30:00 -0000

Both House and Senate lawmakers are looking to eliminate the IRS’ free online tax filing platform. The Senate Finance Committee is proposing to axe Direct File as part of its contribution to the budget reconciliation bill. The House passed its version of the so-called Big Beautiful Bill last month which would also eliminate the Direct File program. Direct File had nearly 300,000 users during this year’s tax filing season and saw higher favorability scores compared to last year’s pilot.

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Lawmakers sound alarm over reports of 'mega-database' of sensitive government records

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:02:57 -0000

Congressional Democrats are sounding the alarm over reports that a federal contractor is helping the Trump administration build a “mega-database” of sensitive government records. Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are leading their colleagues in a letter to the company Palantir. The New York Times reports the company is building a single, searchable database of taxpayer records across multiple agencies. The lawmakers are asking for a full list of Palantir’s federal contracts.

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Postal Service strikes deal with another of its unions

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:03:48 -0000

The Postal Service strikes a deal with another one of its unions. Members of the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association approved a tentative contract that lasts through 2027. About 67% of voting members approved the tentative agreement. Next up, the American Postal Workers Union which votes whether to approve its contract or not next month. Members of another union, the National Association of Letter Carriers voted against a tentative agreement with USPS in January. A third-party arbitrator eventually struck a deal with both parties.

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Interior Dept and Forest Service face consolidation deadline

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 11:11:11 -0000

The Interior Department and the Forest Service are facing a deadline to consolidate their wildland fire programs. President Trump signed an executive order last week giving the agencies 90 days to combine their two offices into one. The White House says it will make wildland fire prevention and response efforts more efficient. But some federal wildland firefighters question the need for consolidating the programs when a larger response is already needed. The Forest Service lost about 1,400 qualified wildland firefighters over the last several months amid the Trump administration’s workforce cuts.

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Changes coming to TSP’s Lifecyle Funds

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:03:52 -0000

Participants in the Thrift Savings Plan will soon see a few changes to the TSP’s Lifecycle, or “L,” Funds. Starting June 30th, the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board will add an “L 2075” Fund. That's meant for any current or future federal employees who plan to retire during or after the year 2073. The TSP board will also be rolling over the current “L 2025” Fund into its broader Income Fund.

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Civilian agencies spend 23% less in 2025 than in 2024

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:34:40 -0000

Civilian agencies have spent nearly 23% less during the first eight months of 2025 as compared to the same time period in 2024. The Department of DOGE Services says that means non-defense spending has been reduced by almost $25 billion. Overall non-defense agencies have obligated over $85 billion in 2025 down from $110 billion at this point last year. Some of the spending reduction comes from the cancellation of contracts, which DOGE says agencies have terminated more than 11,000.

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Hunger Free America files lawsuit after cancellation of USDA contract

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 10:58:47 -0000

The Agriculture Department has cancelled hundreds of contracts under the Trump administration … including one that helped households locate food assistance programs. The nonprofit Hunger Free America says it ran an “information clearinghouse” of food assistance programs for USDA for more than a decade. But it claims in a lawsuit that USDA terminated the contract last month.

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Postal Service may be limited to one price increase per year

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:57:07 -0000

The Postal Service is falling into pattern raising stamp prices each January and July. But its regulator is considering limits to those price increases. A proposed rule from the Postal Regulatory Commission would cap UPSP to only raising prices once per year. The regulator gave USPS the freedom to set mail prices higher than the rate of inflation in 2020 when the agency was at risk of running out of cash. USPS is planning to set the price of a first-class Forever stamp to 78 cents next month.

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Assessment find 67% of separating troops screen positive for a mental health condition

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 21:12:35 -0000

A separation health assessment administered to more than 50,000 service members found that about 67 percent of troops screened positive for at least one mental health condition. Post-traumatic stress disorder and depression were among the most common issues identified. A government watchdog found that over 50 percent of service members declined referrals to the DoD’s inTransition program that provides mental health resources during transition periods. DoD officials told the Government Accountability Office that many factors may contribute to the high rate of positive screenings among separating service members, including that many intend to file disability claims.

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Federal retirement claims spike in May

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0000

More federal employees filed retirement papers with OPM in May than in the last three months. OPM says it received more than 15,000 claims last month, driving the backlog up over 21,000. The processing time for these retirement claims remain consistent at 49 days on average in May and 52 days on average for the entire 2025. The increase in applications comes as OPM is requiring agencies to send retirement paperwork only in digital formats by July 15. OPM launched two new tools this week to improve the retirement services process. One is a new platform for agency HR and payroll providers and another to modernize the Electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) platform.

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Commerce Department drops health insurance for some recently fired employees sooner than promised

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:05:32 -0000

The Commerce Department dropped health insurance coverage for some recently fired employees sooner than promised, according to the top Democrat on the House Oversight and Reform Committee. Acting Ranking Member Stephen Lynch says Commerce fired about 800 probationary employees under the Trump administration, and that some of them lost health coverage on April 8, days before they were officially fired. Commerce employees were briefly reinstated under a federal judge’s order. But an appeals court allowed the firings to remain in effect.

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IRS close to getting a new leader

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 07:51:56 -0000

President Donald Trump’s permanent pick to run the IRS is one step closer to taking office. The Senate Finance Committee advanced the nomination of former Missouri Congressman Billy Long. Democrats on the committee raised concerns that Long promoted tribal tax credits that don’t exist, according to the Treasury Department and IRS. Long told lawmakers that if confirmed he’d help the IRS modernize its legacy IT systems.

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TSP funds bounce back in May

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:28:28 -0000

Every fund but one in the Thrift Savings Plan saw positive returns last month.

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No pay raise for federal employees in 2026 budget request

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:13:35 -0000

The White House is not requesting an increase in pay for federal employees in fiscal 2026. President Donald Trump released more details of his budget request for next year late Friday afternoon. The appendix section of the budget proposals also includes provisions to continue the pay freeze for certain career Senior Executive Service members and political appointees. In all, the new budget document details more specific discretionary spending requests for each agency. Unlike the "skinny" budget released in early May, the administration did include funding requests for OPM, Education and independent agencies like CFBP.

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New data shows impact of fired IGs

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 03:45:13 -0000

The 19 agency inspectors general fired by President Donald Trump had a collective impact of saving the government more than $50 billion in fiscal 2024. New data from Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Ranking member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, shows the IGs played a key role in investigations and audits that uncovered significant fraud and abuse. Peters highlighted two examples: The Energy Department's IG who halted an illegal semiconductor export scheme, which led to the cancellation of $100 million in grants and the DoD IG who uncovered fraudulent financial practices targeting Gold Star families, leading to a 12-year prison sentence and a $1.4 million penalty.

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Lawmakers question plan to pay political appointees more

Thu, 29 May 2025 21:07:58 -0000

Democratic lawmakers are criticizing the Trump administration’s recent push to pay political appointees more money. In a letter to the Office of Personnel Management, Democrats on the Senate Appropriations Committee called OPM’s recent encouragement on the issue an “egregious abuse” of taxpayer dollars. OPM recently recommended that agencies pay their political appointees the maximum salary possible, nearly $200,000. Based on current federal salary caps, Schedule C political appointees can be paid nearly $200,000 per year. They don’t always receive the top amount, but OPM recently recommended that agencies pay their political appointees the maximum salary possible. The Democrats are now pressing OPM for more information on the responsibilities and costs of current Schedule C appointees.

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DoD reviews its support for homeschooling military families

Thu, 29 May 2025 11:27:39 -0000

The Defense Department is taking a closer look at how it supports military families who choose to homeschool their children. In a recent memo, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness to conduct a departmentwide review of the current support available to homeschooling military families, including the feasibility of providing resources for those students. A recent study from Johns Hopkins University found that around 12% of military families chose to homeschool their children in 2024 — that’s double the rate of civilian families.

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DHS' fired probationary employees granted class certification on appeal case

Tue, 27 May 2025 21:53:24 -0000

Probationary employees who were fired from the Department of Homeland Security have been granted class certification on an appeal case with the Merit Systems Protection Board. The DHS employees allege that the agency violated the law when it terminated them earlier this year. They argue that the mass firings at DHS were really an unlawfully conducted reduction in force (RIF). Gilbert Employment Law, which is representing the DHS employees in the MSPB case, called the class certification “heartening news.”

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DMDC expands online ID card program to overseas military families

Fri, 23 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The Defense Manpower Data Center has expanded its online ID card issuance system to include overseas dependents of service members. Since its launch in 2023, the program has eliminated more than 300,000 in-person visits by allowing service members to request their ID cards online. DMDC now wants to improve the system by allowing users to upload updated photos directly into the system. It is exploring ways to extend services to locations without access to military postal services.

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VA issues grants to suicide prevention programs

Thu, 22 May 2025 21:30:52 -0000

Veterans Affairs is giving organizations more resources to prevent veteran suicide. VA is issuing more than $50 million in grants to community-based organizations that provide suicide prevention or emergency clinical services to veterans at risk of suicide. Groups have until the end of September to apply for these grants. Veterans who are experiencing suicidal thoughts can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and then pressing 1.

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Correctional officers at the Federal Bureau of Prisons are using a different approach to urge congressional action

Thu, 22 May 2025 10:57:13 -0000

Correctional officers at the Federal Bureau of Prisons are using a different approach to urge congressional action. A new billboard campaign led by the American Federation of Government Employees is calling on Congress members to reject President Trump’s effort to strip collective bargaining rights. Many bipartisan lawmakers have supported federal correctional officers for a long time. But the union said it’s disappointed that lawmakers now appear to be turning their backs on the frontline federal workers. AFGE has rented out a number of billboards across the country urging Congress to reject Trump’s executive order canceling union contracts, efforts that would cut benefits for federal correctional officers.

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VA makes it easier for veterans to seek care in non-VA facilities

Tue, 20 May 2025 22:01:57 -0000

The collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees remain in limbo after an appeals judge ruled in favor of the Trump administration. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in March ending collective bargaining rights for national security employees. The order expanded who is considered a national security employee to more than three dozen agencies. The appeals court ruled 2-to-1 on technical grounds, finding that the unions don’t have the legal right to sue because the Trump administration has said it won’t end any collective bargaining agreements while the case is being litigated.

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Lawmaker calls for investigation into DOGE access to IRS systems

Mon, 19 May 2025 20:29:22 -0000

A top House Democrat wants an investigation into the Department of Government Efficiency’s access to IRS systems. Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Gerry Connolly requested the investigation in a May 15th letter to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. He raised concerns about DOGE plans to centralize IRS data. Connolly also highlighted potential issues with the IRS’ data-sharing agreements with the Department of Homeland Security.

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DoD to reduce leased space by 30 percent

Fri, 16 May 2025 21:58:23 -0000

To reduce leased space costs by 30 percent within the next 18 months, the Defense Department is closely tracking building occupancy to find underutilized spaces. It is also moving more personnel to existing military installations to reduce the number of people working in rented office buildings. Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment Robert Thompson said the effort is critical to “eliminating waste and duplication” while “maximizing the value of the department’s real estate portfolio.” The Defense Department is reducing its leased space costs as it implements a government-wide return-to-office policy requiring thousands of employees to resume in-person work.

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CBP looks to expand its use of facial recognition technology

Fri, 16 May 2025 09:40:49 -0000

Customs and Border Protection is looking to expand its use of facial recognition. In a new request for information, CBP says it’s seeking solutions for capturing facial images of occupants in vehicles. The technology would be used at ports of entry to compare biometrics in CBP’s Traveler Verification Service. CBP and other Homeland Security agencies have been expanding their use of facial recognition to expedite traveler screening in recent years.

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HHS reinstates some employees, mostly in West Virginia

Thu, 15 May 2025 02:41:44 -0000

Health and Human Services is reinstating some employees after firing thousands last month. HHS is bringing back about 100 employees at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The agency researches and makes recommendations to prevent work-related injury, illness, disability, and death. Most of the reinstated employees work in Morgantown, West Virginia. HHS fired about 10,000 employees in April and another 10,000 took voluntary incentives to leave the agency.

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Office of Federal Contract Compliance programs lays off 90 percent of workforce

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:49:38 -0000

The Labor Department is making major cuts to a watchdog office that ensures federal contractors aren’t discriminating against their employees. The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs laid off about 90% of its staff last week, leaving only about 50 employees nationwide. OFCCP was created in 1965 to protect American workers from race and gender discrimination by federal contractors. Employees who got RIF notices will separate from the agency on June 6.

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New cybersecurity law updates may be on the way

Mon, 12 May 2025 20:05:43 -0000

The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence is considering updates to a key cybersecurity law. The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 20-15 expires this September. The intelligence committee last week received briefings from multiple agencies on how the law has worked out so far. The statute incentivizes private industry to share cyber threat data with the government. But Intelligence Committee Chairman Rick Crawford says the law needs to be updated to account for a decade of evolving technology and cyber threats.

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Lawmakers look to secure collective bargaining rights for health care employees

Sun, 11 May 2025 19:00:50 -0000

Democrats are attempting to secure full collective bargaining rights for federal health care employees. A new bill from Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth would allow nurses, clinicians and other professionals at the Veterans Health Administration to negotiate with management over their workforce concerns. The bill has been introduced in the past. But this time around, Duckworth says the bill is especially important given the Trump administration's efforts to broadly cancel collective bargaining across agencies.

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Lawmakers want more funding for Coast Guard recruitment

Thu, 08 May 2025 22:18:39 -0000

Lawmakers are calling on the Trump administration to prioritize funding for more recruiting at the Coast Guard. Last year, the Coast Guard exceeded its recruiting goals for the first time since 2017. But the service is still 3,000 members short of its targeted enlisted goal. Lawmakers say the 2026 budget should seek to fill those gaps and return the Coast Guard to its full operational capacity. The Trump administration is seeking increases for the Department of Homeland Security in 2026 . . . but it has yet to release specific details on its proposed Coast Guard budget.

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Federal court puts hold on Trump administration plan to close three agencies

Wed, 07 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

A federal court is putting a hold on the Trump administration’s plans to eliminate three small agencies. A judge at the U-S District Court in Rhode Island issued a preliminary injunction … putting a temporary hold on cuts to the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service which helps resolve collective bargaining disputes and the Institute of Museum and Library Services the primary source of federal support for U.S. libraries and museums. The judge’s ruling also blocks further cuts to the Minority Business Development Agency.

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Federal retirement claims drop in April

Tue, 06 May 2025 13:24:03 -0000

Just over 7,800 federal employees retired last month, the lowest amount so far in 2025. The Office of Personnel Management says more than 33,500 federal employees retired in first quarter of 2025 compared to 29,700 hundred during the first three months of 2024. OPM's retirement backlog dropped to 16,700 hundred, almost 4,000 less than March. On average, OPM is processing retirement claims in 54 days, but those applications that took less than 60 days for the agency to get OPM the paperwork were processed in 33 days on average.

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A New National Defense Strategy is on the way

Tue, 06 May 2025 10:57:40 -0000

Defense Secretary Hegseth has launched the development of a new National Defense Strategy — a major policy document that sets the Pentagon’s strategic goals and priorities. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, who played a key role in crafting the 2018 National Defense Strategy during Trump’s first term, will lead the new NDS effort. Hegseth said, “The NDS is the single most important document to ensure the Department is operating in accordance with the President’s and my intent."

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TSP funds post mixed results for April

Fri, 02 May 2025 16:01:52 -0000

The international stock index I fund was the big winner among Thrift Savings Plan funds in April. Its monthly return was 4.16%. That also leaves it as the highest year-to-date, at an even 9%. The government securities G fund and fixed income investment F fund both also showed positive returns last month, at 0.35% and 0.39 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, the common stock index C fund and small cap stock index S fund - both tied to major stock indexes - stayed in the red in April, and have negative year-to-date returns. All lifecycle fund returns were positive.

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Federal firefighters facing workforce shortage

Thu, 01 May 2025 20:20:51 -0000

Federal firefighters within the Defense Department continue to struggle with significant workforce shortages. The DoD has been operating below the minimum required staffing level for firefighters since 2019. That’s according to a new report from the Government Accountability Office. GAO says the staffing gaps partially stem from worse pay and work schedules than those offered by local fire departments. To address the issue, GAO says DoD should analyze the factors affecting staffing challenges, and make a department-wide workforce plan.

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Record number of FOIA requests filed in 2024

Thu, 01 May 2025 03:10:20 -0000

Agencies received a record 1.5 million Freedom of Information Act requests in fiscal 2024. That’s according to the Justice Department Office of Information Policy’s latest summary of federal FOIA data. Agencies nearly kept pace by processing one-point-four-nine million FOIA requests last year. Still, the governmentwide FOIA backlog increased to 267,000 cases by the end of fiscal 2024.

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President Trump appoints new members to the FEMA Advisory Council

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 19:28:50 -0000

President Donald Trump has appointed new members to a group that will recommend reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Trump on Monday formally appointed 20 members to the FEMA Advisory Council. They include Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Robert Fenton, Junior, the regional administrator for FEMA Region 9. The council is co-led by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. It has yet to meet more than three months after Trump set it up.

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Defense secretary dismisses DoD’s advisory boards

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 21:25:16 -0000

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed all members of the Defense Department’s advisory boards. Joe Kasper, Hegseth's former chief of staff, launched a review of all advisory committees in March, required them to justify their existence. Kasper instructed the committees to explain how their advice “benefited the DoD, the Federal Government, and the United States,” and how it aligns with President Donald Trump’s goals and Hegseth’s priority of “restoring the warrior ethos.” This is not the first purge of advisory boards at the Pentagon in February 2021, then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin fired all members of the advisory boards as part of a “zero-based review” of their operations.

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Army surpasses its reenlistment goals for 2025

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 17:04:18 -0000

Coast Guard digitizes 40% of paper medical records

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 19:28:00 -0000

The Coast Guard has digitized 40% of its paper health records as of February. In a new update on the initiative, the Coast Guard said the goal is to completely digitize all paper health records by the third quarter of fiscal 2027. The service began the effort to digitize 45,000 paper health records in November 2022. Digitized records can be viewed on the MHS Genesis portal and are also accessible to the Department of Veterans Affairs for benefits delivery.

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USPS and NRLCA strike deal on new contract

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:15:00 -0000

The Postal Service strikes a labor deal with another one of its unions. USPS reached a tentative agreement with the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association, which represents more than 130,000 rural letter carriers. NRLCA members must vote to ratify the contract before it’s approved. Letter carriers represented by the National Association of Letter Carriers voted against a tentative contract earlier this year. It took a third-party arbitrator to reach a final labor agreement between USPS and NALC.

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Bipartisan group of Senators ask White House to reconsider cancelation of collective bargaining agreements

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:25:00 -0000

A group of bipartisan senators is asking President Donald Trump to reconsider his broad

cancelation of federal collective bargaining agreements. In a letter sent to the President on Thursday, four senators say they are concerned that his recent executive order will impede efforts to make the government more efficient. Trump eliminated most agencies’ union contracts last month, citing national security concerns. But the lawmakers say collective bargaining has a largely positive effect on the federal workforce, as it improves productivity and efficiency. The two Republicans and two Democrats are urging Trump to reverse course on his decision.

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Infrastructure permitting agencies have 45 days to develop modernization plans

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Agencies who handle the federal permitting process for roads, bridges and other infrastructure

programs are on the hook to modernize the technology that runs these systems and share data more easily. President Donald Trump's latest executive order says the Council on Environmental Quality has 45 days to develop a Permitting Technology Action Plan that will include initial technology and data standards. The action plan also will provide a roadmap for creating a unified interagency permitting and environmental review data system. Agencies then will have 90 days to implement the data and technology standards and minimum functional requirements for the new interagency system. CEQ also will lead an interagency Permitting Innovation Center that will design and test prototype tools that could be implemented as part of the

Permitting Technology Action Plan.

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PACT Act makes determining veterans' benefits payments more difficult

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:17:00 -0000

The PACT Act has reportedly made determining when veterans' benefits payments should be issued more difficult. The Department of Veterans Affairs inspector general says about a quarter of all PACT Act related claims it reviewed over a year were issued incorrect effective dates, resulting in nearly $7 million in improper payments. The IG says a lack of training is mainly to blame and recommended creating a job aid for claims processors.

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VA starts search for new health and benefits leaders

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 03:25:00 -0000

The Department of Veterans Affairs is starting its search to fill two leadership roles. The VA is looking for candidates that President Donald Trump can nominate as the next under

secretary for health and undersecretary for benefits. VA’s Deputy Secretary Paul Lawrence will oversee the search. Both roles face major projects, from rolling out a new Electronic Health Record, to processing a record volume of disability claims. The under secretary for health will oversee accelerated plans to roll out a new Electronic Health Record. The under secretary for

benefits will ensure the VA can continue processing a record volume of disability claims.

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Lawmakers call on National Archives to investigate use of Signal and Gmail by top government officials

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 03:39:00 -0000

Lawmakers are calling on the National Archives to investigate the use of unauthorized

communications platforms by top government officials. Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security Committee say the reported use of Signal and Gmail by national security officials creates major cybersecurity risks. They also point out that it could violate federal record laws. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz reportedly has used both Signal and Gmail for sensitive discussions.

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Trump administration wants to ease foreign arms sales process

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0000

President Donald Trump seeks to ease the foreign arms sales process for U.S. defense

companies. Trump signed an executive order aimed at reducing rules and regulations governing military equipment sales to other countries. Both industry and foreign nations have long complained about the process that has been plagued by bureaucratic delays and lengthy approval procedures. Trump instructed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to identify top-priority ally nations and the most strategically important weapons

and systems for faster delivery to those countries. The executive order also directs Hegseth, Rubio and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to submit a plan that makes exportability a requirement earlier in the acquisition cycle and consolidates the sales approval process.

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Federal retirements slow in March

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:53:00 -0000

Just over 7,800 federal employees retired in March, almost 2,000 less than who left in

February. The Office of Personnel Management says the claims backlog also dropped to about 16,500, which is the lowest its been in 2025. The time to process retirement claims also ticked back up to average about 50 days in March. But OPM says the average time to process a claim for all of 2025 dropped one day to 54 days. More than 33,500 federal employees have

retired so far in 2025, that is about 3,800 more than the number who left in the first three months of 2024.

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Acting head of the IRS steps down

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:49:00 -0000

The acting head of the IRS is stepping down in the aftermath of a new data sharing agreement between the agency and Customs and Border Protection. Multiple sources tell the Associated Press that Melanie Krause resigned because of the new development on Tuesday. The agreement will allow ICE to submit names and addresses of immigrants inside the U.S. illegally to the IRS for cross-verification against tax records. Krause has served as acting commissioner since February.

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Is DOGE overstating its savings claims?

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 02:20:00 -0000

The US DOGE Service's claims that it is saving more than 140 billion dollars by cancelling contracts is overstated. New analysis from the American Enterprise Institute finds the savings are much closer to about 10 billion dollars. Nat Malkus, the deputy director of Education Policy Studies at AEI, reviewed the contract data DOGE posted to highlight the amount of money agencies obligated versus how much they actually spent came out to be much smaller than what DOGE claimed the total value of the contracts were worth. Additionally, AEI says until the White House asks Congress for and lawmakers approve a rescission of funding, they money stays on the books and savings aren't real.

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GSA ready to hire new contract specialists

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 03:29:00 -0000

Despite reducing its workforce by thousands of employees, the General Services Administration is ready to hire new employees once again. The Federal Acquisition Service put out job postings for contract specialists and supervisory contract specialists. The contract specialists would be at the GS-12 and 13 pay scales, while the supervisory positions would be at the GS 14-15 levels. All positions are available in several locations, including Washington, DC, San Francisco and 10 other locations around the country. GSA didn't say how many people it was looking to hire. Some estimate it could be up to a thousand new employees as the Trump administration aims to centralize contracting for common goods and services at GSA.

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Pentagon IG investigating Hegseth's use of Signal

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 23:44:00 -0000

DoD's acting Inspector General Steven Stebbins will review Defense Secretary’s Pete Hegseth’s use of the commercial messaging app Signal to discuss operational details of airstrikes in Yemen. Stebbins said the review will “determine the extent to which the defense secretary and other DoD personnel complied with DoD policies and procedures for the use of a commercial messaging application for official business.” The evaluation will also investigate the

compliance with classification and records retention requirements. Stebbins’ memo comes after two top Senate lawmakers requested a probe into the incident that has stunned Washington.

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Federal union's lawsuit against 'deferred resignation program' resurfaces

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:11:00 -0000

A federal union’s lawsuit against the Trump administration’s deferred resignation program is resurfacing. That’s after at least seven agencies have renewed their “fork in the road” offers to federal employees, ahead of reductions in force. In response, the American Federation of

Government Employees has amended its initial complaint. The union argues that the deferred resignation offer is unlawful, and that the administration needs to issue regulations for the program before proceeding. A federal judge previously blocked AFGE’s initial complaint, saying

that the union first needed to go to the Federal Labor Relations Authority over the matter.

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Thrift Savings Plan stumbles in March

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:04:00 -0000

The Thrift Savings Plan stumbles in March. The only funds to post positive returns were the G, F and I funds. The government securities G fund posted the highest returns for the month, at zero-point-three-seven percent. The small cap stock index investment S fund posted the lowest return, at negative seven-point-nine-three percent. The Lifecycle funds all posted negative returns as well. Year to date, however, every fund in the TSP but the S fund is seeing positive returns. The I Fund and F Fund are among the biggest winners so far this year with return rates of over 4.6% and 2.7%, respectively.

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Targeted pay bump for junior enlisted troops goes into effect this month

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:38:00 -0000

Junior enlisted troops will see a pay bump this month as the Defense Department introduces a targeted pay hike this month aimed at improving service members’ quality of life. Congress

approved a significant pay raise for active-duty service members ranks E-1 through E-4 which is set to go into effect. Service members already received a 4.5% pay raise in January, but junior enlisted service members should see an additional 10% pay increase in their mid-month paychecks. This historic pay increase for junior enlisted troops is part of Congress’ efforts to improve military recruitment and retention.

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Federal employee unions are taking the administration to court after it cancelled several collective bargaining agreements

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:48:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal unions have been quick to push back against President Trump’s move canceling many collective bargaining agreements.

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The contracting freeze the Trump administration instituted is causing some vendors to go out of business

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration's contracting freeze has caused several contractors to go out of business.

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Democrats in the House want to know just how prevalent the use of Signal is by Cabinet officials

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:32:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats are looking into whether Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem uses the Signal app for official business.

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Republicans in the House want to give the White House more leeway to make changes at agencies

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 16:55:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, GOP lawmakers are looking to expand the president’s authority for fast-tracking agency reorganizations.

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GAO to conduct study on effect mass firings had on American people

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 12:34:00 -0000

On today's episode of the Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office will open an investigation into the impact of the Trump administration’s firing of probationary employees on the health and safety of the American people.

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Lawmakers urge Defense Secretary not to erase troops' historic accomplishments

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In a letter to President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a group of lawmakers is urging the Defense Department to 'immediately reverse policies' that they say attempt to erase records of troops' historic accomplishments. The four lawmakers signed

onto the letter are veterans who serve on the Senate Armed Services Committee. The lawmakers said content about record-breaking combat flight hours by female aviators, medal recipients within segregated combat units during the World Wars and historical contributions of Native American servicemembers is being removed indiscriminately. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell said Thursday that “history is not DEI,” and that when content is “mistakenly or maliciously” removed, the department continues to work quickly to restore it.

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DoD continues removal of historic content from websites citing DEI

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The Defense Department says “in rare cases” it has “deliberately or mistakenly” removed certain content as part of its efforts to erase diversity, equity and inclusion pages from its

website after a webpage dedicated to Jackie Robinson's service was suddenly gone. Robinson’s webpage, along with content about the Navajo Code Talkers, the Tuskegee airmen, and the Marines at Iwo Jima, was initially removed as part of the department-wide purge of DEI content ordered by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Robinson’s page, titled ‘Sports Heroes Who Served: Baseball Great Jackie Robinson Was a World War Two Soldier,’ has been restored after public outcry without any content changes. Pentagon Press Secretary John Ullyot said

the department is “pleased by the rapid compliance” with the defense secretary’s directive to remove DEI content from all platforms.

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Labor rallies in support of the federal workforce pop up across the country

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Labor rallies are popping up across the country this week to call attention to the Trump administration’s recent upheavals of the federal workforce. In Atlanta, Georgia, employees from

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are pushing back against the Trump administration’s recent actions. Transportation Security Administration workers in San Diego, California, are calling for the revival of the agency’s recently terminated union contract. And in Akron, Ohio, employees from the Department of Veterans Affairs are protesting recent terminations, which they say will harm the VA’s ability to deliver services. The American Federation of Government Employees, which is leading many of the rallies, says it will continue to push back against the Trump administration’s massive cuts to the federal workforce.

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White House rescinds federal contractor minimum wage

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 02:17:00 -0000

Federal contractors no longer have to pay a minimum wage of almost $18 per hour for employees under certain types of contracts. President Donald Trump rescinded the executive order from April 2021 establishing higher hourly pay for hundreds of thousands of blue collar workers. The Biden administration raised the minimum wage for specific covered government contracts like those for concessions or those for services on federal lands to $17.75 an hour starting on January 1st. Trump's rescission means contractors can pay blue collar employees a minimum of just under

$13 an hour.

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Social Security sets the record straight on it's Death Master File

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 21:12:00 -0000

The Social Security Administration continues to try to set the record straight about the accuracy of its Death Master File. After repeated false claims by the White House and DOGE that SSA is paying tens of thousands of people who are more than 100 years old, the agency says less than one-third of one percent of all deaths are erroneously reported and need to be corrected. SSA says it's confidence its Master Death file is highly accurate.

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Defense Department orders review of military standards

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a departmentwide review of military standards, including physical fitness, body composition and grooming. A memo released on Wednesday

directs the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness to review how the standards have changed since January 2015. Hegseth pledged to conduct this review during his confirmation hearing. The defense secretary said the review will “illuminate how the department has maintained the level of standards required over the recent past.” The Defense Department opened up combat roles to women in December 2015, a decision that Hegseth has previously

opposed.

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Agencies told to ignore collective bargaining agreements in deference to RIFs

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 12:12:00 -0000

The Trump administration tells agencies to ignore collective bargaining agreements that interfere with the ability to conduct reductions in force, or RIFs. A new memo from the Office of Personnel Management argues that contracts with federal unions cannot supersede an agency’s ability to lay off its employees. The OPM memo says agency management has the right to determine its number of employees, and make headcount adjustments as needed. The guidance comes just ahead of agencies’ expected RIF plans, which are due to the White House by this Friday.

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Pres. Trump makes new nominations to OMB

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:35:00 -0000

President Donald Trump nominated Eric Ueland to be the top federal management official. Ueland, who is currently the acting chief of staff for OMB, would be the deputy director for management at OMB if confirmed by the Senate. He would replace Jason Miller, who was DDM for all four years of the Biden administration. Ueland is a former Senate staff member, having worked for majority leader Senator William Frist (R-Tenn.) and then as staff director for the upper chamber’s budget committee. Along with Ueland, Trump nominated Ethan Klein to be an associate director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, which is another name

for the federal chief technology officer. He was an emerging technology policy adviser during the first Trump administration where he focused on autonomous and unmanned systems.

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DHS brings back one of its federal advisory committees

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:40:00 -0000

The Department of Homeland Security is bringing back at least one of its federal advisory committees. In a public notice this week, DHS announced it is renewing the Homeland Security Advisory Committee. The reconstituted panel will have 35 members. They will serve three-year terms and provide strategic advice to the secretary of homeland security. DHS terminated several advisory panels in the early days of the Trump administration, including the Cyber

Safety Review Board that was investigating a major U.S. telecom hack.

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With government shutdown less than a week away, calls for Congress to pass a spending bill

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 19:53:00 -0000

With a government shutdown less than a week away, a leading Republican Senator is calling for Congress to pass a spending bill. Maine Senator Susan Collins, the chairwoman of the

Appropriations Committee, says government shutdowns are inherently a failure to govern effectively and have negative consequences all across government. House Republican lawmakers unveiled their year-long continuing resolution on Friday. The bill freezes overall funding at fiscal 2024 levels but does include cuts to certain agency programs and increases to others, such as the FAA and fully funds the largest junior enlisted pay raise. It also doesn't include any language related to DOGE.

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White House looks to hold litigants financially responsible for filing lawsuits against the government

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0000

Federal employee unions and other organizations filing lawsuits against the Trump

administration may have to put money in escrow to cover the potential costs and damages of the lawsuit. President Trump's new memo tells agencies to use the Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(c) to ask the federal courts to hold litigants accountable for their lawsuits. The scope of the directive covers all lawsuits filed against the federal government seeking an injunction where agencies can show expected monetary damages or costs from the requested

preliminary relief, unless extraordinary circumstances justify an exception. Failure of the organization that filed the lawsuit to provide the money could result in the denial or dissolution of the requested injunctive relief.

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Veterans Affairs planning to eliminate 72,000 positions

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:27:00 -0000

The Department of Veterans Affairs is planning major cuts to its workforce later this year. VA Secretary Doug Collins says the department is looking at a 15% cut to return the agency to 2019 staffing levels. That would meaning eliminating about 72,000 positions. Collins says VA will shrink the workforce without any cuts to veterans’ health care or benefits.

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DoD says DOGE identified $80 million in wasteful spending

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 02:03:00 -0000

The Defense Department says Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has so far identified about 80 million dollars in what it considers wasteful spending. Press Secretary Sean Parnell said DOGE has found one point nine million dollars for diversity, equity and inclusion training in the Air Force; six million dollars to the University of Montana to “strengthen

American democracy by bridging divides;” and three point five million dollars at the Defense Human Resources Activity for support to DEI groups. DOGE saving the Defense Department 80 million dollars represent less than one percent of the Pentagon’s total budget.

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National Science Foundation rehires half of employees fired two weeks ago

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:35:00 -0000

The National Science Foundation has just rehired about half of the employees it fired two weeks ago. The reversal comes after a federal judge ruled last week that the Trump administration's directives telling agencies to fire their probationary employees were illegal. The reinstated workers will receive backpay and will not see a break in service. While 84 employees will be going back to work, the other 86 fired workers will still be out of their jobs. NSF says that's because they were intermittent employees and not full-time staff members. The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents NSF workers, says it's looking forward to welcoming back the reinstated employees.

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DoD orders transgender service members be removed from the military

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:03:00 -0000

A new memo from the Defense Department's office of personnel and readiness directs service members diagnosed with gender dysphoria to be separated from the military. The department says transgender service members may be granted a waiver if there is a “compelling government interest in retaining the service member who directly supports warfighting.” The Defense Department said all service members impacted by this policy will be separated with an honorable characterization of service.

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Military services to remove all DoD news and media promoting DEI

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 16:03:00 -0000

Sean Parnell, the Pentagon’s top spokesperson, has instructed the military services to remove all DoD news and feature articles, photos, and videos that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by March 5th. If the services are not able to remove all DEI content from DoD social media accounts by March 5th, they will be required to temporarily scrub all DEI news articles, photos and videos published during the four years of the Biden administration. Components using DVIDS are also required to review their DEI content, which is scheduled for removal. The

digital content refresh memo from Sean Parnell follows President Donald Trump’s various executive orders eliminating DEI across the federal government and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s “Restoring America’s Fighting Force” memo.

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Is the Army future soldier prep course putting recruits at risk?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 03:42:00 -0000

The Defense Department Office of Inspector General found that recruits who went through the Army’s future soldier prep course did not receive medical services, such as metabolic and cardiovascular screenings, assessments by a dietitian or medical clearance before proceeding to basic training. The inspector general found that many trainees far exceeded the Army body fat standards before starting the prep course. The future soldier prep course was designed to help recruits meet academic and physical standards before starting basic training. The news comes after the service managed to meet its recruitment goals in 2024, mainly due to the success of the prep course .

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More leadership changes at the IRS

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 06:53:00 -0000

The acting head of the IRS is stepping down and retiring from the federal government. IRS Chief Operating Officer Melanie Krause will take over as the new acting IRS commissioner.

Krause joined the IRS in 2021 and started as its chief data and analytics officer. She’ll take over for Doug O’Donnell, a career employee with 38 years of service who will retire this Friday. The IRS recently fired about 6,500 probationary employees.

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OPM offers late guidance to federal workforce on Musk email

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 09:57:00 -0000

It came a little late – but the Office of Personnel Management issued guidance last night telling agencies how they should handle this weekend’s mysterious email telling employees to summarize their accomplishments over the past week. The memo, published just a few hours before the midnight deadline, says responses should be sent to both OPM and agency leadership. OPM says agencies should make their own decisions about what actions to take toward employees who don’t respond to the email. The guidance also makes clear that employees who didn’t have access to email yesterday shouldn’t be held to the deadline. It also completely exempts White House staff from the need to respond. Several large agencies have already told employees they don’t need to respond to the email.

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FEMA advisory board begins to take shape

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 20:32:00 -0000

A new advisory board that will consider reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency is starting to take shape. DHS put out the official charter for FEMA Review Council late last week. The council is slated to hold its first meeting by April 24th and deliver an initial report to the White House by late July. President Donald Trump has called for potentially eliminating FEMA and sending emergency management funds directly to states. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who has a seat on the new council, has said the administration should

“get rid of FEMA the way it exists today.”

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Connolly wants clarification of Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 02:42:00 -0000

A top House Democrat is pressing for information on Elon Musk’s role in the Trump administration. In a letter sent to President Donald Trump Thursday, Congressman Gerry Connolly called for transparency in Musk’s involvement in federal operations. Connolly says Musk has been widely portrayed as the leader of the Department of Government Efficiency, or “DOGE.” But a White House official recently claimed that Musk is *not* an employee of the U.S. DOGE Service. Connolly’s letter pushes for answers on who *is* DOGE’s current administrator, and the nature of Musk’s relationship to the federal entity.

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U.S. Postal Service and letter carrier union at an impasse over new labor contract

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:10:00 -0000

The Postal Service and its letter carrier union are at an impasse over a new labor contract. The dispute now heads to a panel of third-party arbitrators. Members of the National Association of Letter Carriers overwhelmingly voted down a tentative agreement for a new contact earlier this month. USPS and the union failed to reach a new deal within a 15-day window.

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Air Force evaluating its Family Days policy

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 19:15:00 -0000

The Air Force is evaluating its Family Days policy to ensure it “aligns with the force’s ability to support warfighter readiness.” Family Days are extra days off that military commands typically grant to service members around federal holidays to create an extended weekend. A new memo from the acting assistant secretary for manpower and reserve affairs says while commanders may authorize a day off for military members on these dates, civilian employees are not granted additional leave. Airmen and Guardians expressed concerns that the service might eliminate Family Days to ensure mission readiness.

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TRICARE pharmacy changes impact military members

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 21:33:00 -0000

Close to 400,000 military members with health insurance through TRICARE may have been impacted by pharmacy changes over the last couple years. The Defense Health Agency has gradually reduced the number of pharmacies available through TRICARE to cut costs and save taxpayer dollars. But the Government Accountability Office said the pharmacy changes could make it take longer for beneficiaries to access prescription drugs. DHA officials, though, said the pharmacy changes were only a reduction in participants’ choices for their preferred pharmacy, and not a loss of overall access. Still, GAO is recommending that the agency more closely monitor prescription timeliness and data, and make adjustments as needed.

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Republican lawmakers propose bill to fast track Trump plans

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 19:25:00 -0000

Two Republican lawmakers want to make any governmentwide reorganization plan an up or down vote by Congress. Congressman James Comer and Senator Mike Lee's Reorganizing

Government Act of 2025 would fast-track any plan President Donald Trump submitted to Congress. Lawmakers say the bill would help give the president the authority to streamline government operations to better serve the American people. Comer and Lee say this legislation restores a reorganization authority that was last in effect in 1984, aiming to modernize

and improve government efficiency.

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Lawmakers want answers on DoD’s pause on sexual assault training

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:24:00 -0000

House Democrats are pressing the Defense Department about the military services pausing sexual assault prevention and response training programs. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the lawmakers said the decision is “not only irresponsible but also dangerous.” The lawmakers also said the law requires providing this training to incoming service members, civilian employees, first responders and staff directly supporting victims. At least some military

branches have paused the program as the Defense Department works to comply with

President Donald Trump’s executive order banning all diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across the government.

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White House fires head of Merit Systems Protection Board

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 01:29:00 -0000

Cathy Harris is out as the chairwoman of the Merit Systems Protection Board. An MSPB spokesman confirmed the White House terminated Harris's position and named Henry Kerner as acting chairman. The White House also demoted Ray Limon from the vice chairman position. Limon, however, remains on the board, which maintains the quorum to hold hearings. Harris became MSPB chairwoman in March 2024 and joined the board in June 2022. Kerner has been on the board since June. Previously, he was the special counsel of the Office of Special Counsel for almost six years.

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Deadline for 'deferred resignation' offer remains on hold

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:48:00 -0000

The deadline for the Office of Personnel Management’s “deferred resignation” offer remains on hold. But that’s not stopping lawmakers from seeking a closer look at who’s taking the deal. Congressman Steny Hoyer is leading 49 House lawmakers to ask OPM for a breakdown of feds opting in by agency location GS level and length of service. The House lawmakers say they’re concerned the offer could disproportionately hollow out agency staffing in certain states or regions.

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Senior Republican Senator considers FEMA's future

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 09:54:00 -0000

Amid the continued debate over FEMA’s future a senior G-O-P Senator is calling for reforms that could bolster the agency’s work. Oklahoma Senator Jim Lankford says too many

agencies have responsibilities under the federal disaster framework. In a letter to the White House, Lankford said he should consider whether more disaster assistance responsibilities should be consolidated under FEMA. Trump has called for potentially eliminating FEMA and recently announced a FEMA Review Council to overhaul the agency.

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House Democrats introduce Taxpayer Data Protection Act in response to Musk actions

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:31:00 -0000

House Democrats are making a push to secure data at the Treasury Department. A group of lawmakers have introduced the Taxpayer Data Protection Act. The bill seeks to add a layer of protection against anyone seeking to access the agency's systems. The legislation would bar anyone with conflicts of interest -- or without a security clearance from getting into the Treasury Department's data. The bill comes after billionaire Elon Musk and some of his employees gained access to Treasury Department data. House Democrats say they're expecting a Senate companion bill for the Taxpayer Data Protection Act shortly.

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Agencies given a 45-day deadline to identify Biden era SES career only positions

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 04:19:00 -0000

Agencies have 45 days to identify Senior Executive Service roles that were made career-only positions during the Biden administration. A new memo from the Office of Personnel Management directs agencies to reverse the career-only status for those roles, and instead open them to potentially political appointments. For any career positions agencies think should be exempted from conversion, agencies have to explain their reasoning for why it should remain a career-only role. The White House says it’s taking the action after seeing reports of agencies redesignating positions to career-only during the previous administration. OPM’s memo is an effort toward implementing President Trump’s executive order to make feds in policy-related positions at-will workers.

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Democratic lawmakers press White House about Elon Musk's access to classified data

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 16:57:00 -0000

Top House Democrats are pressing President Donald Trump about Elon Musk’s access to classified data. In a letter to Trump on Tuesday, the ranking members of seven House committees ask whether Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team have the security clearances needed to access sensitive data. They point to reports about the DOGE group breaking security procedures to gain access to sensitive systems at the Treasury Department, the Office of Personnel Management and the U.S. Agency for International Development. Dems want answers from the White House by February 14th.

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Senate Democrats raise concerns about Musk team access to Treasury payment systems

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers are raising concerns about Elon Musk’s access to the Treasury Department’s payment systems. Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden are both pressing Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for more details. In separate letters, both Warren and Wyden say the DOGE team’s access to Treasury systems poses major legal and security concerns. They also ask whether any safeguards are in place to protect sensitive data.

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Trump administration voids union contracts signed in the last month

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:41:00 -0000

Any new contract with federal unions signed toward the end of the Biden administration are null and void under a new memo from the White House. In President Donald Trump's order issued Friday night, he says any last-minute, lame-duck collective bargaining agreements try to bind a new president to his predecessor's policies and that is illegal. Specifically, Trump is referring to the contract the Social Security Administration signed with the American Federal of Government Employees, which guaranteed employees telework and remote work for five years. AFGE says approved union contracts are enforceable by law, and the president does not have the authority to make unilateral changes to those agreements.

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Lawmakers working on better retirement benefits for federal firefighters

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 20:11:00 -0000

Lawmakers are making a bipartisan effort to secure better retirement benefits for federal

firefighters. Virginia Democrat Gerry Connolly and Pennsylvania Republican Brian Fitzpatrick have introduced the Federal Firefighters Families First Act. If enacted, many federal firefighters would receive larger retirement benefits. The House bill aims to change the retirement calculation for federal firefighters to account for overtime hours worked. The lawmakers say the bill would align federal firefighters’ benefits with what state and local firefighters already receive.

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New task force to oversee DoD’s removal of all diversity, equity and inclusion offices

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:12:00 -0000

A new task force will oversee the Defense Department's efforts to abolish all diversity, equity and inclusion offices within the department. The task force's mission is described as getting rid of “any vestiges of such offices that subvert meritocracy, perpetuate unconstitutional discrimination, and promote radical ideologies related to systemic racism and gender fluidity.” The move is part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s plan to create “merit-based, color-blind policies.” Housed under the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness, the task force will oversee the removal of DEI programs and the reform of promotion and selection policies. Hegseth said the Defense Department “will not consider sex, race, or ethnicity when considering individuals for promotion, command, or special duty.”

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Senators push back on President’s firing of IGs

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 06:52:00 -0000

Leaders of the Senate Judiciary Committee are pushing back on President Donald Trump’s mass firing of agency watchdogs. Chairman Chuck Grassley and Ranking Member Dick Durbin say Trump didn’t follow the law when he removed 18 inspectors general last Friday. A 2022 law requires the president to give 30 days’ notice to Congress and case-specific reasons when removing an IG. The lawmakers are asking Trump to provided those detailed explanations for each IG removed and to provide a list of acting IGs.

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Trump Justice department fires employees who worked on Trump criminal investigations

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:32:00 -0000

The Justice Department says it's fired more than a dozen employees who had worked on criminal investigations into President Trump before his election. A DOJ official says the career prosecutors were fired because the acting attorney general doesn't trust them to carry out Trump's agenda, and that it's part of ending, quote, "the weaponization of government." DOJ didn't identify the fired employees, and it's not yet clear whether they'll challenge their terminations under civil service protection rules.

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OPM testing governmentwide email communication

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 09:47:00 -0000

Some federal employees may have seen a test email land in their government inboxes last week. The Office of Personnel Management is looking to open a direct line of communication to

the federal workforce. OPM is currently testing a web capability that should let the agency email all civilian feds at once from a single email address. OPM says it will continue testing the email function over the next week.

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Trump administration revokes diversity requirements for federal vendors

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 23:57:00 -0000

The Labor Department's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs will no longer hold vendors accountable for promoting diversity, taking affirmative action and engaging in

workforce balancing based on race, color, sex, sexual preference, religion or national origin. President Donald Trump revoked these requirements earlier this week in one of several orders. Additionally, contractors must agree that they are complying with all applicable federal anti-discrimination laws and it will factor in the government’s payment decisions. The President's order also says contractors and grant recipients must certify that they do not operate any programs promoting DEI that violate any applicable federal anti-discrimination laws.

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OPM issues federal civilian hiring freeze guidance

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 18:59:00 -0000

More details are emerging about President Trump’s federal hiring freeze executive order. A memo from the Trump administration confirms that military personnel, as well as hires for many national and public security positions, are exempt from the freeze. But there are some additional exemptions as well. Agencies can still make new hires for the Postal Service, and for federal employees who are up for an internal promotion. OPM says agencies should also review any recent appointments in the Pathways Program for early-career workers on a case-by-case basis. Agencies can make further requests for exemptions to the hiring freeze by submitting paperwork to the Office of Personnel Management.

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DHS nominee advances out of committee to Senate floor

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:48:00 -0000

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s nomination for homeland security secretary is moving forward in the Senate. The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 13 to 2 on Monday night to advance Noem’s nomination to the Senate floor. Noem will play a key role in overseeing the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement and border security policies. She has also pledged to rein in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s work on mis- and dis-information. The director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, Benjamine Huffman is currently leading DHS as acting secretary.

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Federal agencies under 90-day hiring freeze

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 09:10:00 -0000

All agencies are under a 90-day hiring freeze with the exception of military personnel of the armed forces or of positions related to immigration enforcement, national security or public

safety. The freeze will last until OMB, OPM and the new advisory board Department of Government Efficiency submit a plan to the White House to reduce the size of the government’s workforce through efficiency improvements and attrition. The freeze would lift for all agencies except for the IRS, which would remain unable to hire new employees until the Treasury Secretary, OMB and DOGE determine it's of national interest to lift the freeze. The new hiring

freeze is nearly identical to an executive action Trump took on his first day in office in 2017. The 2017 hiring freeze lasted for nearly three months.

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Democrats introduce FAIR Act to raise federal pay in 2026

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 18:45:00 -0000

Civilian federal employees just got a 2 percent average raise added to their pay checks. But Democrats are already looking ahead to next year’s federal pay raise. The FAIR Act would give federal employees a 4-point-3 percent pay increase beginning next January. Congressman Gerry Connolly and Senator Brian Schatz have reintroduced the bill each year for about the last decade. But beyond its introduction, the legislation has never seen action in Congress. Still, Democrats say the larger raise in the FAIR Act would help federal pay keep pace with rising costs of living.

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Comer introduces SHOW UP Act to get federal workers back to the office

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 10:09:00 -0000

Federal employees are facing a familiar bill in a long line of legislation aiming to cut telework options. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer reintroduced the SHOW UP Act this week. The bill would return federal employees to the work arrangements they had prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In practice, it would largely scale back federal telework. The House passed the bill in the last Congress. But the Senate did not take any action on the companion legislation. During a hearing this week, Comer said there’s “no reason” feds shouldn’t go

back to pre-pandemic telework levels.

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State Dept reports a record number of Americans now have passports

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:16:00 -0000

A record number of Americans hold a U-S passport. The State Department says there are more than 170 million in circulation and that it issued or renewed 90 million passports during the Biden administration. Applicants saw long wait times to apply or renew their passports at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the department says it’s gotten processing times down to four-to-six weeks.

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OPM finalizing rules to bring blue collar wages in line with General Schedule

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 15:37:00 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management is finalizing rules meant to bring the wages of blue collar feds more geographically in line with their General Schedule counterparts. Under the changes set to take effect in October, OPM says nearly 15-thousand workers will see higher wages. Around 500, meanwhile will get lower pay under the new wage area boundaries. Most of the affected employees work for the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

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OPM tells federal workers to plan to telework throughout inauguration week

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0000

As Inauguration Day approaches, federal employees in the D.C. area should plan to telework all this week, and into next week, if they’re able to. The Office of Personnel Management says preparations for Inauguration Day next Monday will create traffic disruptions and road closures in the nation’s capital. OPM is asking agencies to work in a maximum telework posture to try to ease at least some of that traffic. Federal employees who do have to go into the office should build in extra time for the expected delays. Employees will also get a federal holiday on Monday, January 20th, to observe both Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

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Federal workers who telework one day a week could lose locality pay

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 01:48:00 -0000

Federal employees who telework at least once a week would lose locality pay under a new House bill. Under the Federal Employee Return to Work Act, teleworking employees would receive "Rest of U.S." locality pay even if they live and work in a region with a higher cost of living. Rep. Dan Newhouse introduced the bill. He and Sen. Bill Cassidy led the bill during the last session of Congress.

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Incoming House Foreign Affairs committee puts hold on State Dept & USAID project funds

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 02:27:00 -0000

The new chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee is putting a hold on hundreds of millions of dollars for the State Department and the U-S Agency for International Development. Chairman Brian Mast says the agencies are rushing to spend the money on projects before the start of the Trump administration. Mast says those projects include studying climate change in the Middle East and LGBTQ awareness programs in Zimbabwe.

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OPM clarifies rules for political appointees resigning on Inauguration day

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:07:00 -0000

Political appointees who are resigning on Inauguration Day later this month have some special rules to pay attention to. A new memo from the Office of Personnel Management details how pay, benefits and leave typically work for non-career federal employees resigning at the end of an administration. Impacted appointees will mostly be ending their workdays at noon on January 20th. Because of that, OPM is telling agencies they should only receive a half day of pay. OPM added that resigning appointees should also not accrue annual and sick leave for the pay period that starts next week. That’s because they will leave their positions before

completing the full pay period.

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AFGE files unfair labor practice against Bureau of Prisons

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 13:20:00 -0000

The American Federation of Government Employees filed an unfair labor practice against the Bureau of Prisons for its decision to close seven facilities. AFGE says this decision impacts more than 400 union members in seven states. AFGE says the bureau made the decision to close the facilities without warning or consultation with the union , which violated the terms of its labor-management agreement. In the unfair labor practice, AFGE is asking the Federal Labor Relations Authority to halt the implementation of this reorganization and require BOP to bargain with the union.

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Partial payouts for 2015 OPM data breach

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:08:00 -0000

The federal government is only paying out a small fraction of the settlement funds it set aside for victims of the 2015 Office of Personnel Management data breach. A federal court

in October 2022 finalized a $63 million settlement for those impacted by the

breach. But a recent court filing shows about the federal government paid about

$4.7 million to more than 5,000 individuals who could demonstrate harm from the

data breach. The OPM breach impacted about 22 million current and former

federal employees.

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Opening day for the 119th Congress

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:33:00 -0000

The 119th Congress begins today and several key Senate committee federal workforce committees have new leaders. At the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, former chairman, Gary Peters, is the new ranking member. Over at the Armed Services Committee, Democrats tapped Jack Reed from Rhode Island to be the ranking member. Senator Richard Blumenthal takes the ranking member reins at the Veterans Affairs Committee while Senator Edward Markey is the new Democratic leader of the Small Business Committee. Senator John Thune from South Dakota is the new Majority Leader. The new chairmen of the committees are expected to be finalized in the coming days.

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D.C. Mayor Bowser and President-elect Trump meet about underutilized federal buildings

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 03:54:00 -0000

President-elect Donald Trump and D-C Mayor Muriel Bowser agree the federal government has more office space than its employees currently need. Bowser says her recent meeting with Trump centered on the federal workforce and underutilized federal buildings. The leaders of a new Department of Government Efficiency say they plan to bring federal employees back to the office five days a week. Trump says he also plans to challenge a new agreement the Social Security Administration made with one of its unions locking in current levels of telework for years to come.

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Oklahoma Senator takes aim at waste and fraud

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:54:17 -0000

Two new bills from Senator James Lankford are aimed to recovering improper payments from two large programs. The first bill, the Fraudulent COVID Funds Recovery Act, would extend the statute of limitations for all pandemic-era programs for five extra years. The new statute of limitations would let law enforcement officials go after fraudsters through 2030. The second bill, the Eliminate Fraudulent Unemployment Insurance Benefits Act, would require states to withhold payments from any claimant it deems ineligible and fraudulent. It also creates new definitions to help states appropriately classify fraudulent activity. COVID era programs and the Unemployment Insurance benefits faced higher than normal levels of fraud, federal auditors found. Lankford is expected to be the chairman of the Government Operations and Border Management Subcommittee of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

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Immigration and Customs Enforcement working to fill workforce gaps

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 18:34:26 -0000

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is working under a new enterprise strategy to fill workforce gaps. ICE’s 2024 annual report details how the agency used direct-hire authorities to make several hundred job offers in the past year. And ICE also made 185 tentative job offers at the Department of Homeland Security’s June hiring expo. ICE says that recruiting and hiring is a major piece of a multiyear “Enterprise Transformation Initiative” kicked off in 2024. The immigration agency is expected to ramp up recruitment under the incoming Trump administration.

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President Biden signs the annual defense policy bill into law

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:38:46 -0000

Junior enlisted troops will receive a historic pay raise next year after President Joe Biden signed the annual defense bill into law on Monday. Other service members will get a 4.5% raise beginning January. Junior enlisted service members ranks E-1 through E-4 will see the extra ten percent added to their paycheck beginning April. The bill also increases the income eligibility threshold for the basic needs allowance to 200% of federal poverty guidelines. Congress must still authorize a full fiscal 2025 spending bill once it’s back in session.

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Contribution changes coming to TSP in 2025

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 11:05:20 -0000

The Thrift Savings Plan board is reminding participants about changes to contribution limits coming for 2025. Generally, TSP participants will be able to contribute a maximum of $23,500 to their accounts next year. But participants ages 50 and up can make additional catch-up contributions of $7,500. Those ages 60 to 63 can make even higher catch-up contributions of $11,250 due to the Secure 2.0 Act. As of December, there are 7.2 million accounts in the TSP, a new record high. About 155,000 of those accounts are TSP millionaires.

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A quarter FDIC employee survey respondents say harassment is common in the workplace

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:58:48 -0000

A new survey of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation employees finds that a majority feel safe, valued and respected in their workplace. But more than a quarter of the respondents say harassment is common in the workplace. The new survey, from the FDIC inspector general, comes as part of the ongoing investigation into long-standing workplace culture concerns. The IG received responses from more than 26 hundred employees out of more than 62 hundred who received the survey. From the results, the IG made six recommendations, including the agency needing a way to receive complaints confidentially and anonymously from FDIC employees. The FDIC management says it will implement the recommendations by June 30th.

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Senate clears way for bill to get rid of WEP and GPO

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 18:29:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate has cleared the path to a final vote on the Social Security Fairness Act.

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Homeland Security gets its very own generative AI chatbot

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 16:57:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Homeland Security's new AI chatbot, DHSChat, is now available to roughly 19,000 employees.

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President elect Trump appears to be no fan of federal telework

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:19:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President-elect Donald Trump promised yesterday to dismiss any feds who don’t come to work onsite full time.

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Federal agencies facing partial shutdown by week's end

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 10:55:05 -0000

Federal agencies are facing a partial shutdown on December 21st at midnight if Congress doesn't pass another continuing resolution or the funding bills for fiscal 2025. Agencies began preparing for a partial government shutdown on Friday as required under Circular A-11, which initiates the process when the expiration of current funding is a week away. House Speaker Mike Johnson, however, said last week that negotiations to extend the current CR are moving forward. The White House asked Congress in November to add more than $98 billion to the next CR in additional funding to help respond to disasters.

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House lawmakers take on recruiting doctors for Department of Veterans Affairs

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 20:14:57 -0000

A bipartisan bill in the House envisions a new way for the Department of Veterans Affairs to recruit doctors. The Supporting Medical Students and VA Workforce Act would create a new scholarship program in which the VA pays students to study medicine at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Students who accept the scholarships would agree to serve as VA physicians after completing their residencies. House VA Committee Ranking Member Mark Takano and Congressman Neal Dunn are leading the bill. They say it would help the VA address a shortage of physicians in rural and underserved areas.

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VA awarded bonuses to career executives amidst multi-billion dollar budget shortfall

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 11:54:11 -0000

Department of Veterans Affairs is dealing with a multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall and awarded bonuses to career executives not eligible to receive them last year. Now the top Republicans on the House and Senate VA committees are calling on the department to hold its executives accountable for these issues during their annual reviews. House committee Chairman Mike Bost and Senate committee chairman Jerry Moran say department leaders should consider the role VA executives had in these management issues before making any performance-based compensation decisions.

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House Veterans Affairs Committee chairman keeps his post

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:51:13 -0000

The top Republican on the House Veterans Affairs Committee will keep his post in the next session of Congress. Congressman Mike Bost will continue to serve as the committee’s chairman for the next two years. Bost says he’ll focus on expanding veterans’ options to seek health care outside the VA’s medical system … and holding the VA workforce accountable to the veterans they serve.

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Incoming Senate Judiciary Chair backs Trump plan to remove FBI Director Wray

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 11:21:39 -0000

The next leader of the Senate Judiciary Committee is backing President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to clear out top officials at the FBI. Senator Chuck Grassley is calling on FBI Director Chris Wray and his second in command … to step down from their posts. Grassley says the FBI hasn’t done enough to investigate allegations of sexual misconduct within its workforce or to protect whistleblowers from retaliation. Wray’s term doesn’t end until 2027. But President-elect Donald Trump says he plans to nominate Kash Patel to lead the FBI.

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Senator plans to introduce package of bills called the DOGE Acts

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:33:29 -0000

Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn plans to introduce a new package of bills this week, called the DOGE Acts. One bill would require agencies to report to Congress on the impacts of expanded telework and remote work for federal employees. Another bill in the package would freeze federal hiring and salaries for one year. The legislation aligns with the goals of the so-called “Department of Government Efficiency,” an external team led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy that promises to drastically cut government spending. Blackburn says her bills are aimed at holding the federal government more accountable.

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Some Social Security Administration employees lock in telework through 2029

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:18:04 -0000

Some employees at the Social Security Administration have locked in their current telework levels through 2029. The agency reached an agreement last week with one of its unions, the American Federation of Government Employees. The updated contract, which was first reported by Bloomberg, secures current hybrid work schedules for thousands of telework-eligible feds. The SSA agreement comes as leaders of the Department of Government Efficiency are alluding to plans of returning federal employees to the office full-time in the coming Trump administration.

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Sen. Duckworth calls for support of in-vitro coverage for military personnel

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:41:43 -0000

Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth is asking President-elect Donald Trump to support her legislation to expand insurance coverage for in vitro fertilization for military personnel. In a letter to Trump, Duckworth is urging the President-elect to mandate the federal government and insurance companies to pay for all IVF-associated costs. Both House and Senate versions of the defense policy bill have provisions that would provide service members with the same level of IVF services coverage that federal employees and members of Congress are able to receive. Meanwhile, two House Republicans are urging Congress not to include any provisions in the 2025 defense policy bill that can expand access to in vitro fertilization.

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Veterans denied benefits under PACT Act due to incorrectly processed claims

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 05:03:02 -0000

A watchdog report finds Veterans Affairs incorrectly processed disability claims from veterans and underpaid benefits that some veterans were eligible for.

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IRS warns of holiday identity theft scams

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:13:35 -0000

The IRS is raising the alarm on identify theft scams this holiday season. The agency says it's seeing an uptick in phishing email and texts and other scams to get taxpayers to hand over their personal information.

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Trump taps outsider for Navy Secretary

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 21:20:36 -0000

President-elect Trump tapped businessman John Phelan to serve as the next secretary of the Navy, saying Phelan will 'put the business of the U.S. Navy above all else."

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Treasury warns of potential IRS hiring freeze

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 19:54:48 -0000

The Treasury Department says an IRS hiring freeze is possible if Congress doesn't address a $20 billion budget anomaly. The IRS already saw a $20 billion cut to its modernization fund.

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Pentagon drafts potential biggest government AI contract

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:20:00 -0000

The Pentagon is out with its first draft of what could become the biggest government AI contract in history. Potential bidders have a little under a month to offer feedback on the draft RFP for what DoD is calling the Advancing AI Multiple Award Contract.

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Long standing SSA executive takes over as acting Commissioner

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 22:30:28 -0000

SSA confirmed that President Joe Biden is expected to name Colvin, a 30-year SSA veteran and former acting commissioner for six years, to lead SSA during the transition.

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Presidential Rank Award winners are announced

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:20:00 -0000

President Joe Biden is recognizing 236 federal employees across 30 agencies for their exceptional leadership and accomplishments. The Office of Personnel Management announced the winners of the 2024 Presidential Rank Awards on Thursday.

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Federal contractors agree to pay fines for False Claims Act violations

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 11:45:08 -0000

Two government contractors agree to pay a total of $4.3 million to settle allegations that they violated the False Claims Act and forced the Army to overpay for IT hardware. The Justice Department says Dell Technologies and Iron Bow will each pay more than $2 million to resolve a Qui Tam lawsuit. DoJ says Dell and Iron Bow allegedly conspired to collude on solicitations under the Army's AMDC-3 contract. Justice says from 2020 to 2024 Dell operated a deal registration program, whereby it gave advantageous pricing to Iron Bow to sell certain Dell computer hardware products and then also submitted their own direct bids on the same solicitations that were more costly.

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A House lawmaker wants to do away with CMMC program

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 09:58:16 -0000

At least one member of Congress wants to do away with the Pentagon's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program. Alabama Republican Gary Palmer has submitted a joint resolution of disapproval to overturn the CMMC rule.

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Overhaul of security clearance and personnel vetting process enters new phase

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:11:11 -0000

The White House-led initiative to overhaul the security clearance and personnel vetting process has entered a new phase. The Performance Accountability Council in its latest report on “Trusted Workforce 2.0 says agencies have updated all major policies related to personnel vetting. The PAC is now entering phase three of Trusted Workforce implementation. That includes expanding continuous vetting shifting to more shared services and speeding up the clearance process to get people to work faster.

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OMB to push Congress on extra funds for longer-term disaster relief

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 18:35:18 -0000

OMB Director Shalanda Young says in the coming days the White House will send Congress a comprehensive disaster package to replenish funding for agencies ranging from FEMA to SBA to EPA to the Transportation Department.

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House to vote on bill to make it easier to fire VA employees accused of misconduct

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 03:54:42 -0000

Congress already passed legislation in Veterans Affairs to fire employees accused of misconduct in 2017, but federal courts and the MSPB block the law from covering VA's workforce.

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FDA sees high vacancy rates for drug manufacturer inspectors

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 22:40:03 -0000

The Food and Drug Administration is having trouble retaining employees who inspect drug manufacturers. The vacancy rate for these FDA investigators nearly doubled between November 2021 and June 2024. The agency tells the Government Accountability Office that travel … pay … and work-life balance are contributing factors to turnover. Investigators can spend up to 75% of their work hours on travel. The FDA paused many inspections of drug manufacturing facilities height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Musk & Ramaswamy tapped to head government efficiency effort

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 21:17:29 -0000

The new organization isn't an official department. It is charged with working from the outside of the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance."

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FEMA to take action to comply with premium pay laws

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:03:13 -0000

The agency's Payroll and Compensation Branch tells FEMA's inspector general that it will complete all premium pay reconciliations for 2021 by January 31.

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Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey makes history at U.S. Southern Command

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 13:26:59 -0000

Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey officially assumes duties as the new commander of U.S. Southern Command, making history as the first Black commander of SOUTHCOM since its inception more than six decades ago.

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GSA opens access to transition resources for Trump team

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 07:49:00 -0000

The General Services Administration says it’s standing at the ready to give Trump’s transition team post-election resources.

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GSA gears up for post-election presidential transition

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:04:33 -0000

The General Services Administration is gearing up for post-election presidential transition efforts. And this time around, the process will look a little different.

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House lawmakers slam Sec. McDonough over VA request for emergency funding

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 13:12:00 -0000

Congress gave nearly $3 billion to the Department of Veterans Affairs at the end of fiscal 2024.

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IRS raises contribution limits for Thrift Savings Plan

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 21:36:08 -0000

Federal employees can contribute more money to their Thrift Savings Plan accounts in 2025.

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CISA issues warning to feds about large-scale spear phishing campaign by a foreign actor

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 16:12:25 -0000

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is warning federal executives about a large-scaling spear phishing campaign by a foreign actor. In a new alert issued late yesterday, CISA says the adversaries are often posing as a trusted entity by sending spear-phishing emails containing malicious remote desktop protocol files.

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Lawmakers want a closer look at how agencies address improper payments

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 02:01:39 -0000

Top lawmakers on the House Oversight and Accountability Committee are calling on a government watchdog to take a closer look at how agencies are addressing improper payments.

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New bill would penalize career federal employees for policy resistance

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 03:54:58 -0000

A new bill in the House would penalize career federal employees who don’t follow directives from a presidential administration. The so-called STRAFE Act would require agencies to report any policy resistance from federal employees to the White House.

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DHS Cyber Safety Review Board to examine Salt Typhoon attacks

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 20:49:13 -0000

The Department of Homeland Security’s Cyber Safety Review Board will look into an alleged China-linked hack of U.S. telecom networks.

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Texas, Virginia and California top states for defense contract spending

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 19:34:29 -0000

The Defense Department’s contract obligations, payroll spending and grant awards across the country totaled 609.2 billion dollars in fiscal 2023, which is equivalent to 2.2% of the United States GDP. Approximately 59% that went to ten states, including Texas, Virginia, California, Connecticut and Florida. Top three states by defense grant spending are California, Maryland and Michigan. Top three states by defense contract spending are Texas, Virginia and California. Over $431 billion went to contracts for products and services and more than $167 billion was used for DoD personnel salaries.

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OPM is forced to evacuate its headquarters due to water troubles

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 18:07:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management is forced to evacuate its headquarters due to water troubles.

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Four companies face SEC fines for not disclosing they were effected by the SolarWinds hack

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 14:02:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Securities and Exchange Commission fines four companies for misleading disclosures about a major cybersecurity hack.

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An unlikely agency joins the fight against opioid overdoses

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:35:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service is joining the Biden administration’s efforts to combat opioid overdoses.

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Education Dept. to offer early retirements to employees

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 05:02:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Education Department has alerted its union that the agency plans to offer early retirements to employees.

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Housing at the top of the Army's agenda this coming year

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 02:52:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army is putting a lot of focus on fixing its housing this year.

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AFGE calls for Labor Department to continue negotiations over return to office

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 21:31:51 -0000

Union officials are urging Labor Department leaders to continue negotiating over return-to-office changes. About 7,500 Labor Department employees will have to report to work in person at least half of their work hours beginning in December. That’s according to an announcement agency leadership made last week. But the National Council of Field Labor Locals, which represents the affected workers, says the announcement was made without completing bargaining obligations. The union is now calling on Congress members to get involved in the dispute and looking at options with the Federal Labor Relations Authority.

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National Guard and Army Corps of Engineers mobilized in hurricane aftermath

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 17:48:32 -0000

At the same time, recovery efforts continue for Hurricane Helene, with 3,000 National Guard members from 13 states and 1,500 active-duty soldiers engaged in various missions across the region.

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Fewer seasonal hires at USPS this holiday season

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 21:45:11 -0000

USPS expects to make 7,500 temporary hires for its busy year-end peak season, 2,500 fewer than last year.

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FEMA sets new one day record for disaster assistance applications

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 20:39:34 -0000

FEMA took in more than 250,000 disaster assistance applications on Sunday alone, the most new registrations the agency has ever received in one day.

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Emergency leave for federal workers impacted by Hurricane Milton

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 03:16:24 -0000

Feds impacted by the hurricane can then use the extra paid time off during the emergency, without having to dip into their own leave hours.

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DHS issues Hatch Act reminder to federal workers

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 19:49:12 -0000

In a new memo to DHS staff, the department's top lawyer runs down what is and isn't allowed under the Hatch Act.

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Lawmaker questions FEMA on advanced forecasting models

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:47:38 -0000

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation a top Republican on the House Homeland Security Committee is asking questions about the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s advanced forecasting models. New York Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, Chairman of the Emergency Management subcommittee says many communities caught in the path of Hurricane Helene weren’t aware of the potential for destructive flooding. D’Esposito is asking FEMA to provide data on its advanced forecasting models and prepositioning of resources. He’s also asking FEMA whether the agency has adjusted its rainfall modeling after Hurricane Helene.

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Democratic lawmakers call for firing of DHS IG

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Those calls come after the Council on Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency substantiated multiple allegations of wrongdoing by DHS Inspector General Joseph Cuffari.

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Lawmakers want more time off for service members

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 13:30:06 -0000

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act has a provision that would bump it up to 20 days of leave.

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IRS looks to improve privacy protections in Free File program

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 17:48:41 -0000

The IRS told its inspector general that its reviewing privacy disclosures from Free File partners to mitigate risks of exposing personal information.

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Emergency leave for federal employees impacted by Hurricane Helene

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 14:25:55 -0000

OPM says employees who are adversely affected and seek to become emergency leave recipients must apply in writing to their agencies.

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CISA faces challenges sharing cyber threat information

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 16:32:11 -0000

The IG says CISA made some good improvements to the Automated Indicator Sharing program in recent years.

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Federal employees get new source for 'official time' rules

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 18:13:16 -0000

The Federal Labor Relations Authority's new training video for federal employees, unions and managers highlights types of work that are included as part of official time.

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Federal Trade Commission employees unionize

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:58:44 -0000

FTC began the process to unionize back in 2023, raising concerns about their access to telework, potential politicization of the civil service and other issues.

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FEMA prepares for Hurricane Helene aftermath

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 15:35:42 -0000

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is using a big part of the base's airfield as a holding area for truckloads of meals, cots and generators ready to move to other areas of the southeastern U.S. once the storm passes.

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Senate hold on senior military promotion comes to an end

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:34:35 -0000

Senators voted Tuesday to confirm Army Lt. Gen. Ronald Clark for a fourth star and as commander of U.S. Army Pacific.

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Federal trial will decide whether military academies can use race in admissions

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:09:16 -0000

The Supreme Court banned race-conscious admissions practices for most schools but left a possible national security exception for military academies.

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Former IRS contractor employees retained access to facilities, systems and equipment

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 16:52:10 -0000

The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration flagged 1,800 contracted employees listed as active but were no longer assigned to an ongoing contract.

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OPM asks agencies to review 2024 special salary rates

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:50:13 -0000

The Office of Personnel Management’s annual data call asks agencies to take a look at any jobs that might need a higher salary than General Schedule rates to help with recruitment and retention.

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New resources for Postal Service Health Benefit Program enrollees

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:22:54 -0000

Ahead of the new Postal health program's launch in 2025, the Office of Personnel Management has created a landing page with more information.

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Senators push for fix to potential Foreign Service pay cut

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:27:17 -0000

Congress has until the end of the month to reauthorize Overseas Comparability Pay.

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House Democrats introduce ‘Right to IVF’ Act

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:14:24 -0000

A new bill, called the Right to IVF Act, rolls together four previous bills all aiming to broaden fertility coverage nationwide.

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Air Force to meet recruitment goals

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:32:44 -0000

The Department of the Air Force is on track to meet its recruitment goals for fiscal 2024 across all components.

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Federal government saw less attrition in fiscal 2023

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:13:07 -0000

The government saw less staff attrition in fiscal 2023 but some demographic groups are still showing higher rates of quitting than others.

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The Continuing Resolution could mean more cuts to the IRS

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 19:40:51 -0000

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the cuts to IRS funding would reduce its total revenue collection by nearly $66 billion dollars over the next decade.

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Pentagon urges Senate to confirm nominee being blocked by Sen. Tuberville

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 19:48:04 -0000

Alabama Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville is holding up the promotion of Lieutenant General Ronald Clark to lead Army forces in the Pacific.

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NARA offers agencies an exception to no longer accepting paper records

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:48:16 -0000

Agencies are getting an important exception to the National Archives policy of no longer accepting paper records. NARA says agencies can continue sending official personnel folders to the National Personnel Records Center through June of 20-25. And agencies will be able to deliver employee medical folders to the records center until June of 20-27. NARA stopped accepting most paper records at its facilities this past June. But Archives officials have acknowledged that agencies need more time to digitize their personnel and medical records.

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Lawmakers file bill to repeal WEP and GPO

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:08:01 -0000

Lawmakers are officially filing their discharge petition today to try to move the Social Security Fairness Act to a floor vote. The bill aims to repeal the WEP and G-P-O, two provisions that reduce or eliminate Social Security for certain public servants. The discharge petition will only move forward if the document gains 218 signatures, a House majority. The Social Security Fairness Act currently has 326 cosponsors. NARFE is urging all House representatives to sign the petition to move the bill to a floor vote.

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IRS announces $1.3B recovered from high-income wealthy individuals under IRA initiatives

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 15:32:00 -0000

The agency is targeting two categories of tax delinquents — more than 1,600 millionaires with more than $250,000 dollars in tax debt, and 125 thousand high-income individuals, who haven’t filed a tax return since 2017.

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EPA union calls for temporary situational telework option

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 12:52:59 -0000

A federal union is calling for temporary work-from-home options for staff at the Environmental Protection Agency. The push from the American Federation of Government Employees comes after reports of Legionella outbreaks at several EPA facilities across the country. The affected EPA buildings are located in D.C., Boston, Houston and Chicago. The union called it “completely unacceptable” to continue letting EPA employees into the buildings in those areas. Using situational telework would let EPA staff continue their work safely, AFGE said, until the Legionella outbreak is under control.

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IRS Direct File adds more states for 2025

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:18:55 -0000

Governor Moore joins state and federal leaders to announce Maryland is adding IRS Direct File for 2025 filing season.

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New leadership at the Congressional Research Service

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 19:29:00 -0000

Congress' own think tank … the Congressional Research Service … is getting new leadership. Foreign policy expert Karen Donfried (DAWN-freed) will become its director … starting September 23rd. She’ll take over for an interim leader who’s held the top job for more than a year. Donfried previously served as Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs … and as president of the German Marshall Fund. She also worked as a European specialist for C-R-S for 10 years.

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Federal employees likely to see 2% pay raise in 2025

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 16:49:03 -0000

Civilian federal employees are now almost certain to see a 2 percent federal pay raise in 2025. President Joe Biden formally announced his plans for next year’s salary hike on Friday. Nothing will be truly official until Biden signs an executive order enacting the 2025 raise. If finalized, it would be the smallest annual raise enacted during the Biden administration. The 2 percent raise for the General Schedule would break down into a 1.7 percent across-the-board increase, plus a 0.3 percent locality pay adjustment.

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Access to voting for federal workers

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 20:06:20 -0000

Don’t forget… federal employees do get some extra time off on election day this fall. A new reminder from the Office of Personnel Management details exactly how much time, and for what reason. Federal employees can take up to 4 hours of paid administrative leave to go vote on Nov. 5. On top of that, feds can take an additional 4 hours off to volunteer as a poll worker. The paid leave for feds on election day comes from an executive order that President Biden signed back in 2021.

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USPS wins $2M contract fraud settlement

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 17:52:55 -0000

On today's Federal Newscast, USPS wins $2M contract fraud investigation settlement.

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SBA protégé mentor program sees growth for contractors

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:02:13 -0000

On today's Federal Newscast, the number of small businesses in the mentor-protégé program skyrocketed in 2023.

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White House lays out how agencies can keep track of their AI uses

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 05:06:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administrative is showing agencies how to keep tabs on their use of artificial intelligence.

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Agencies get the go ahead to continue paying higher salaries to feds stationed in Iraq

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 02:59:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, civilian federal employees stationed in Iraq will continue to see higher pay rates until the end of the year.

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Americans appear to have a good opinion of federal agencies overall

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, according to a new study, Americans feel generally positive about federal agencies, but it also depends on their political party.

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An apparent attempt to disrupt Army conference with foul smell

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 01:43:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, there's a criminal investigation underway into what appears to have been an attempt to disrupt the Army's annual TechNet conference.

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CISA to receive new headquarters on the St. Elizabeths West Campus

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:20:58 -0000

Former President Trump selects leaders for presidential transition team

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 14:23:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, former President Donald Trump has named two officials to lead his campaign’s presidential transition team

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Partnership for Public Service releases vision to counter the controversial project 2025 plan

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:22:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as an alternative to Project 2025, the Partnership has created a new vision for what it believes will be the best path toward civil service reform and modernization.

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More federal employees now being enrolled now in continuous vetting

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 03:15:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency is starting to enroll more federal employees in continuous vetting.

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CBP settles class action lawsuit that says it discriminated against pregnant employees

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 14:55:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after eight years, Customs and Border Protection has reached a $45 million class action settlement.

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The government's flex spending account for employees seems to be getting safer from fraudsters

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 02:05:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new instances of fraud in the government’s Flexible Spending Account program, FSAFEDS, are dwindling.

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Legislation calling for federal hiring managers to focus more on a job candidate's skills advances to the next step in the Senate

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:58:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a long-awaited bill to reform the government’s hiring process has cleared the way to a possible Senate floor vote.

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Group of federal employees want the White House to do something about sexual misconduct at the work place

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 16:25:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of employees is calling for the government to address sexual misconduct in the federal workplace.

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A big pay boost for federal wildland firefighters steps closer to becoming official

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 16:19:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal wildland firefighters appear a step closer to securing a permanent pay raise.

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Veterans may have more chances for benefits, but it means more opportunities for scammers unfortunately

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 15:01:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, veterans lost more than $350 million to fraud schemes last year.

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Another lawmaker tries to scrap official union time for feds on the clock

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 14:58:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Republicans are trying, once again, to eliminate the use of "official time" by federal employees.

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Pay raise for federal employees seems to be all but ensured

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 16:03:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees are one step closer to receiving the 2% pay raise the Biden administration proposed for fiscal 2025.

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Senate bill gives $375M in funding to new FBI HQ

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 12:16:00 -0000

Citizens have higher trust in certain government services than others, survey shows

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 12:04:00 -0000

New Senate bill would create cybersecurity apprenticeship program

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 15:37:00 -0000

Lawmakers say more talent is needed to fill an estimated half a million open cybersecurity jobs nationwide.

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IRS cracks down on tax delinquents among its workforce

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:16:00 -0000

A watchdog report found the IRS disciplined more than a thousand employees with confirmed tax noncompliance issues.

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OMB: Prepare for 3% raise

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 17:49:37 -0000

The Office of Management and Budget said in its updated Circular A-11 guidance that the President will make a final decision, but agencies should start with 3%.

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USDA's “bee team” is taking home the People’s Choice Award for the 2024 Sammies

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:53:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two members of the Agriculture Department have developed new technologies that can diagnose and treat bee diseases.

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Group of federal employees still pushing for more fertility benefits through insurance program

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:57:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of federal employees continues to push for expanded fertility benefits through the government's health insurance program.

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Federal contractors get some guidance on using AI when hiring

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 02:34:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal contractors have new advice for using artificial intelligence in the hiring process.

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Though the Defense Department managed to go unscathed through the Crowdstrike outage, it remains on the alert

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 18:27:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department generally escaped the effects of Friday’s global internet problems.

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Congressional regulators want to know why a top official at the FCC was able to support what appears to be a Trump campaign initiative

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 16:19:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats say a top official at the Federal Communications Commission helped write a policy blueprint for a new Trump administration.

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Navy members get a reminder to watch how they participate in the upcoming elections season

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 03:16:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Navy leaders get instructions on training all of their personnel on dos and don'ts during election season.

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A policy tweak by the Social Security Administration should make it easier to give money to recipients it underpaid

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 15:53:21 -0000

The Social Security Administration says a recent policy change should make it easier to compensate beneficiaries who received underpayments. To try to get reimbursements out more quickly.

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Military suicide numbers continue to trend in the wrong direction

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 04:01:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, military suicide rates continue to rise, according to recently-released data from the Defense Suicide Prevention office recently-released data.

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Federal firefighters could see bigger paychecks next year

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 18:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House appropriators are taking steps that could give federal firefighters a permanent pay raise.

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Congressional Republicans are looking to see what the Supreme Court's recent decision on agency rulemaking means for the current administration

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 01:45:00 -0000

On today's Federal Newscast, with the Supreme Court overturning a 40-year-old precedent at the core of how federal agencies issue regulations, the top Republicans on two House committees are asking agencies how they’re affected by the decision.

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Everyone would need to sign up for the Selective Service System if the SASC gets its way

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 13:41:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate Armed Services Committee’s version of the defense policy bill would make registering for military conscription automatic for all citizens.

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Despite it's hefty price tag, the Air Force is keeping its program to modernize older nukes

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:25:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the troubled Air Force program to modernize aging nuclear missiles survives despite ballooning costs.

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Federal buildings may become more accessible to those with disabilities

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 15:04:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees and citizens with disabilities will see changes to the areas in front of and around federal buildings in the coming years.

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GSA developing EV battery strategy as foundation for proposed fleet expansion

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 11:56:44 -0000

The General Services Administration's EV battery strategy will help it maximize its use of the expensive components.

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After allegations of a hostile work environment, the FDIC adds two new offices

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 15:03:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation is taking several steps in light of recent findings of a workplace culture that was fraught with allegations of sexual harassment and other kinds of misconduct.

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New TSP option for younger federal employees

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:50:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, younger Thrift Savings Plan participants will soon see a new investment option in the TSP.

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False Claims Act allegations leave two contractors with millions of dollars in fines

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 11:34:05 -0000

(6/28/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Two Defense Department projects garner Presidential Federal Sustainability Awards. The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency is managing a surge in security clearance applications. And resolving False Claims Act allegations, DoJ's Civil-Cyber Fraud Initiative chalks up an $11 million win against two contractors.

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Satisfaction with TSP at all-time high, Accenture survey shows

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 11:35:57 -0000

(6/27/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: DISA sees an opportunity to get out from under an ever-growing mound of technical debt. A new House bill is designed to build a stronger pipeline of cyber talent. And a recent survey shows satisfaction with the Thrift Savings Plan is at an all-time high.

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No rush, but DeRusha finds new Google gig fast, after departing government

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:25:30 -0000

(6/26/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Total federal-acquisition spending might soon hit a trillion dollars. The White House plans to conduct a hiring surge to fill open federal cyber jobs. And we don't know if DeRusha was in a hurry, but this former federal CISO has quickly landed at Google Cloud.

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House intensifies its war against DoD teleworkers

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 10:47:59 -0000

(6/25/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The 2024 Sammies People’s Choice Award enters the final round of voting from the public. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has picked a new Pentagon chief of staff. And a House bill locks, loads, and takes aim against Defense Department teleworkers.

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GOP Senators slam financially strapped Amtrak for paying $75M in bonuses

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 11:53:36 -0000

(6/24/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Government Accountability Office is raising questions about the cybersecurity of federal background investigation systems. The U.S. Navy has eased up its punishments for failed fitness tests. And GOP Senators slam financially strapped Amtrak for paying $75 million in bonuses.

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OPM deadline nears for agencies to hand over list of their politically appointed positions

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 10:38:00 -0000

(6/21/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit has a new plan for spending nearly one billion dollars. OMB's CX guru Amira Boland is stepping down. And OPM's deadline nears for federal agencies to hand over a list of their politically appointed positions ahead of November's election.

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Teleworking DoD employees targeted by House spending bill

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 11:25:55 -0000

(6/20/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: DoD has signed a $248 million deal with Duke Energy to deliver solar power to five military bases. Three more agencies are getting nearly $30 million to accelerate their IT modernization projects. And House appropriators have put a target on the back of teleworking and remote-working Defense Department employees.

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Major DoD acquisition programs taking too long, GAO says

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:09:34 -0000

(6/18/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Biden Administration is contemplating a new acquisition policy that would clear up some confusion. The National Taxpayer Advocate is not impressed with wait times suffered by ID-theft victims to get their tax refund checks. And GAO says wait times of more than a decade are way too long for DoD's major acquisition programs.

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GOP Senators put hold on over 40 Biden nominees

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 11:12:07 -0000

(6/17/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Army Maj. Gen. Paul Stanton has been nominated by the President to lead the Defense Information Systems Agency. The Republican-controlled House has cleared its version of the 2025 defense policy bill. And Senate Republicans have put a hold on more than 40 of the President's nominees, half of whom are nominees to the federal bench.

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'Freezes, furloughs, layoffs' warning from Rep. Steny Hoyer

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 10:54:51 -0000

(6/14/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The VA is staying the course on plans to roll out a new Electronic Health Record. The White House joins a chorus of opposition to the idea of creating a separate Army drone branch. And Maryland Congressman Steny Hoyer warns of freezes, furloughs, and layoffs.

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Rumors targeting Social Security recipients, cause inundation of SSA phone lines

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 11:37:11 -0000

(6/13/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Federal agencies have a new tool to make acquisition research a little easier. Phone scammers go low-tech to impersonate high-tech CISA. And rumors targeting Social Security recipients, cause SSA phones to ring off the hook.

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Public’s trust in government continues decline, survey says

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 11:07:38 -0000

(6/12/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A just-introduced bill would require the State Department to fill more of its leadership positions with career employees. The Defense Innovation Unit has tapped Maj. Gen. Steve Butow as its military deputy. And a Partnership for Public Service survey indicates trust in government continues to decline.

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NIST's new project for securing public benefits programs

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:18:00 -0000

(6/11/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS is reducing underutilized office space, but the IG says it's not fast enough. Federal agencies processed a record 1.1 million Freedom of Information Act requests last year. And the National Institute of Standards and Technology has a new project to help secure public benefits programs.

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Agency cybersecurity incidents grew by almost 10% last year

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:57:46 -0000

(6/10/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: New House legislation would prohibit DHS from buying batteries made by six Chinese companies. The Energy Department gives agencies another tool to get federal buildings to reach net zero emissions by 2045. And the number of cybersecurity incidents at federal agencies in 2023 grew by almost 10%.

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Army looks to bring nuclear energy to its installations

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 11:08:34 -0000

(6/7/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Department of Housing and Urban Development is looking for a new technology leader. Senate Democrats are heightening their push to create better access to in-vitro fertilization treatments and medications. And the U.S. Army is looking to develop and bring nuclear energy to its installations.

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DOJ Gen calls for better federal health care coverage of infertility treatments

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:27:00 -0000

(6/6/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Space Force is accepting applications from Air Force Reservists. Quan Boatman is the new director of the Interior Business Center. And an employee advocacy group is calling for better federal health care coverage of infertility treatments.

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House support for the Technology Modernization Fund plunges

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 11:12:23 -0000

(6/5/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: House Republicans are advancing a $64 billion homeland security spending bill. House defense appropriators, take a hatchet to DEI, abortion, and climate change. And House support for the Technology Modernization Fund takes a nosedive.

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Congress looks to require military drone corps, which Army leaders oppose

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:12:09 -0000

(6/4/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Congressional Republicans are looking at more cuts to State Department funding. OPM has officially made it easier for agencies to hire military spouses. And Congress seems to want a military Drone Corps that Army leaders seem to oppose.

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Retired four-star admiral faces 30 years in prison on bribery charges

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:09:10 -0000

(6/3/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission names a permanent chief information officer. The intelligence community has updated its technology plans. And a 62-year-old retired four-star admiral faces three decades behind bars...on bribery charges.

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Dogs delivered 700 bites to California postal workers in 2023

Fri, 31 May 2024 11:20:21 -0000

(5/31/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The U.S. Army is re-imagining how it creates-and-maintains the technology that runs its command-and-control networks. The American Federation of Government Employees is still worried about the future of telework at the EPA. And the Golden State is the top dog for postal workers, in the dog-bite category.

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2015 OPM data-breach claims checks still trickling in

Thu, 30 May 2024 11:12:59 -0000

(5/30/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Small Business Administration is coming under fire for its use of money collected in its IT working capital fund. Veterans will pay less for VA-covered mental health care over the next few years. And the claims checks from that 2015 OPM data breach are still trickling in.

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NARA's looming digitization deadline for agencies, means the end of paper

Wed, 29 May 2024 11:58:57 -0000

(5/29/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: One of the Defense Department’s top IT acquisition executives is departing federal service next month. A new request for proposal from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is raising alarm bells among services contractors. And the National Archives and Records Administration is preparing agencies for a looming digitization deadline.

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Scrutiny intensifies regarding VA 'bonus blunders'

Tue, 28 May 2024 10:34:55 -0000

(5/28/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is back on the job after briefly relinquishing his duties over the weekend. Innovation in federal acquisition gets the spotlight in a new report from OMB. And Congress turns up the heat on what some members are calling the VA's "bonus blunders."

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White House officials who think the Hatch Act doesn't apply to them may need to think again

Fri, 24 May 2024 15:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Special Counsel vows White House officials will now face full consequences for any Hatch Act violations.

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Promoting Schedule F alternative, working group warns of resurgence of Trump-era plan

Thu, 23 May 2024 11:16:45 -0000

(5/23/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A former White House official is taking a top job at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Patrick Space Force Base in Florida will be the permanent home for STARCOM. And pushing a Schedule F alternative plan, a working group warns of the negative impacts of the Trump-era plan.

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USPS hits pause on some modernization plans

Wed, 22 May 2024 11:24:28 -0000

(5/22/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Technology Modernization Fund is one step closer to getting an extension. The Army’s top cybersecurity official is moving on. And the Postal Service is hitting pause on *some* of its network modernization plans.

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Feds in their 30s relatively unhappy on the job, study shows

Tue, 21 May 2024 11:55:16 -0000

(5/21/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: It looks like a toxic work environment will force the FDIC chairman to resign. House Republicans are trying to roll back the SEC’s controversial cybersecurity rules. And a recent study shows feds in their 30s, are the most unhappy on the job.

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VA earns top honor for medical research

Mon, 20 May 2024 11:13:49 -0000

(5/20/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: President Biden has nominated Maj. Gen. Thomas Hensley to lead the Air Force’s information warfare command. OPM is looking to hire a senior technology leader. And the Department of Veterans Affairs has earned a top honor for medical research.

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Congresswoman Spanberger demands VA clean-up its act when awarding financial incentives

Fri, 17 May 2024 10:46:43 -0000

(5/17/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A bill has been introduced to require DHS to launch a cyber task force focused on artificial intelligence. The White House has released its blueprint for the use of social and behavioral science in policymaking. And a Virginia Congresswoman thinks the VA has some explaining to do about the millions in bonuses it paid to ineligible executives.

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OPM issues time-off guidance for feds experiencing domestic violence

Thu, 16 May 2024 11:44:34 -0000

(5/16/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: GAO lets agencies know how they could save millions of dollars, by making better use of federal buildings. The Defense Department is gearing up to hold a virtual career fair for military spouses. And OPM just issued guidance to agencies on how to handle time off for feds experiencing domestic violence.

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Feds convicted of sex crimes, might someday lose their pensions

Wed, 15 May 2024 11:18:37 -0000

(5/15/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Telework bills are being marked-up in the Senate today. Feds convicted of sex crimes, might someday lose their pensions. And the Defense Department has another recruitment problem on it hands: child care workers.

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DoD's former chief digital and AI officer heads to private sector

Tue, 14 May 2024 11:41:28 -0000

(5/14/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A draft version of the House defense policy bill would raise junior enlisted pay by 15%. The Postal Service is looking to raise prices on more than just mail. And the first chief digital and AI officer at the Defense Department is headed to the private sector.

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Congressmen request Microsoft hearing testimony, because of 'cascade of security failures, cybersecurity shortfalls'

Mon, 13 May 2024 11:10:05 -0000

(5/13/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy is offering big money to keep its pilots from flying the coop. The 2023 numbers are in about how the U.S. Digital Service impacted agencies. And two leaders on the House Homeland Security Committee want to put Microsoft on the hot seat about "cybersecurity failures."

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Army CIO Leo Garciga continues his march to revamp technology policy

Fri, 10 May 2024 11:26:42 -0000

(5/10/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The FDIC is in need of "cultural and structural change," according to a special review committee report. A watchdog report says breakdowns in leadership led the VA to pay nearly $11 million in bonuses to ineligible executives. And the Army's Chief Information Officer continues his march to revamp technology policy.

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The Postal Service loses out on millions of dollars from one postage counterfeiter

Thu, 09 May 2024 02:42:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal prosecutors are wrapping up one of the biggest counterfeit postage cases in years.

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Senate bill would require feds to increase the amount of time they spend in the office

Wed, 08 May 2024 15:19:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a pair of senators is looking to get feds back to the office even more.

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Lawmakers troubled by data dearth of USPS trucking contractors' accidents, fatalities

Tue, 07 May 2024 11:02:00 -0000

(5/7/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department has secured funding for the Replicator initiative. Fourteen Senators want to press the pause button on facial-recognition-use at airports. And a Virginia Congressman is troubled by the lack of information on postal accidents and fatalities caused by trucking contractors.

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Long-time OMB official lands COO post at SSA

Mon, 06 May 2024 11:01:55 -0000

(5/6/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Army will discontinue its temporary promotion policy for non-commissioned officers. In April, TSP posts negative returns for first time this year. And a long-serving official at Office of Management and Budget is taking on a new role at the Social Security Administration.

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DISA's new five-year plan will consolidate support for the warfighter

Fri, 03 May 2024 11:19:36 -0000

(5/3/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A permanent under secretary of Defense for policy, remains elusive. OPM prepares to launch its HR career-growth website. And DISA's new five-year plan will consolidate support for the warfighter.

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Pro-Russian hacktivists have breached American critical-infrastructure networks

Thu, 02 May 2024 11:13:03 -0000

(5/2/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Expanded data on the federal workforce is opening the door for better planning and hiring. Republican Senators are squeezing the Education Dept for higher telework numbers. And pro-Russian hacktivists have broken into American and European critical infrastructure networks.

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CISA makes significant progress deploying Endpoint Detection and Response tools on agency systems

Wed, 01 May 2024 11:45:03 -0000

(5/1/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Innovation Unit gets a new deputy director of commercial operations. The GSA's effort to "right size" the inventory of federal office space continues. And CISA makes major progress deploying Endpoint Detection and Response tools on agency systems.

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Navy defends itself over health impact of Honolulu fuel spill

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 11:29:11 -0000

(4/30/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee have introduced a bill to authorize new VA facilities in eight states and Puerto Rico. CISA has identified more than 150 beneficial use cases for AI in critical infrastructure. And the Navy defends itself in court over the health impact of a Honolulu fuel spill.

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By Friday, agencies required to name senior career official to lead their presidential transition efforts

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 11:52:37 -0000

(4/29/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: GSA is looking for members to serve on its new Open Government Federal Advisory Committee. Senators are raising concerns about Homeland Security's practice of searching through phones at U.S. border checkpoints. And by Friday, agencies are required to name a senior career official to lead their presidential transition efforts.

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Iowa Senator underwhelmed by DoD oversight of government purchase card

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:18:46 -0000

(4/26/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: OPM advises agencies on how they should consider a job candidate's criminal background. Staffing shortfalls will likely mean the Coast Guard will shut down about two dozen small-boat stations across the country. And Sen. Chuck Grassley is underwhelmed by DoD's oversight of the government purchase card.

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GSA releases GenAI buying guide for agencies

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 11:39:26 -0000

(4/25/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Assistant U.S. attorneys at DOJ are calling for more flexibility and consistency in their telework options. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration helped stop a $3.5 billion fraud scheme targeting pandemic relief funds. And GSA will release a new buying guide this week to help agencies purchase generative AI capabilities.

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Wisconsin Senator calls out USPS leadership as first-class financial failures

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:47:01 -0000

(4/24/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Federal employees’ participation rates in the Thrift Savings Plan are gradually rising. The Census Bureau is laying the groundwork for its next population count in 2030. And seven Senate Democrats call out postal-service leaders for poor service and unsustainable pay hikes.

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Army commanders fail to adequately address all forms of harassment, DoD IG says

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:23:56 -0000

(4/23/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Information Systems Agency reaches a new milestone in its classified cloud environment. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is finalizing a list of critical software products. And the DoD IG says Army commanders fail to adequately address all forms of harassment.

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New law requires telework option for pregnant women

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 11:25:41 -0000

(4/22/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Health Agency and the Defense Innovation Unit are asking for ideas to make DoD health care more human-centered. The Defense Department, once again, dominates the President's Cup Cybersecurity Competition. And the new Pregnant Workers Fairness Act includes a requirement for a telework option.

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Defense contractor pleads guilty to bribery

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 12:18:47 -0000

(4/19/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: An Illinois Congresswoman looks to put the postal service's network modernization plans on hold. The State Department joins a nationwide initiative to hire and retain more women for law enforcement positions. And a Virginia-based defense contractor pleads guilty to bribery.

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Children at this air force base appear to have higher rate of rare brain-and-spinal-cord cancer

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 11:12:34 -0000

(4/18/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS received over 100 million individual tax returns this year. The big membership numbers for AFGE, make it the fastest growing major union in the country. And children at a New Mexico Air Force base appear to have a higher rate of a rare brain-and-spinal- cord cancer.

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Since recent pay raise, fewer feds leaving TSA

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 11:28:08 -0000

(4/17/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A half million veterans give high marks to VA health care. The NSA is urging organizations to deploy increasingly ubiquitous AI systems with security in mind. And recent TSA pay raises have reportedly done wonders for staff attrition.

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Accenture Federal Services acquires major federal contractor

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:21:30 -0000

(4/16/24) - Lawmakers are pushing for more access to specialty services in the military’s health care system. The IRS hit its goal for the number of tax filers who used the agency's new-and-free Direct File system. And Accenture Federal Services has acquired a major contractor for the Veterans Affairs Department.

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OMB discards all COVID-19 executive orders onto the syringe-heap of history

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:58:15 -0000

(4/15/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Military pharmacies are finally back to business as usual after a February cyber attack. A new request for information is asking for feedback on a new part of the Federal Acquisition Regulations. And OMB disbands the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force and tosses all COVID-19 orders and guidance onto the syringe-heap of history.

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COVID-fraud crackdown has netted over $3B since 2021

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:12:27 -0000

(4/12/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Junior enlisted service members could get a 15% pay hike as soon as next year. A Senate committee is trying to find out why the Postal Service keeps raising mail prices. And DoJ's efforts to come down hard on pandemic fraudsters, has recovered more than $3 billion.

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Since February, DHS has received over 3,000 applications for new AI Corps

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 12:06:01 -0000

(4/11/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: To curb costs, Army officials are considering cuts to education benefits for their soldiers. The Army's Chief Information Officer is out with another new policy. And the Department of Homeland Security is seeing a lot of interest in new job postings for artificial intelligence.

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Navy unveils new strategy for science and technology

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 11:55:44 -0000

(4/10/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: An Air Force legislative proposal to transfer National Guard space units to the Space Force is sparking a backlash among state governors. NIST is seeking feedback on new recommendations for cyber incident response. And the Navy has a new strategy for science and technology.

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Oregon Senator fed up with data breaches, blasts Big Tech, demands mandatory standards

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:26:08 -0000

(4/9/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The General Services Administration is looking to eliminate the use of "forever chemicals" in federal buildings. Meantime, a couple of California Congressmen want to turn empty federal buildings into housing. And Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) is fed up with data breaches and has Big Tech in his crosshairs.

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Feds in fatigues, too fatigued to properly do their jobs, GAO says

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 12:16:43 -0000

(4/8/24) - For another year, agencies have likely escaped budget cuts due to sequestration. CISA is preparing to host its biggest biannual cybersecurity exercise called, “Cyber Storm.” And service members are reportedly not getting enough sleep each night to properly do their jobs.

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Some lawmakers offer more teeth to Biden's Schedule F takedown

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 11:23:28 -0000

(4/5/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: New guidance is out to improve the management of more than a trillion dollars in federal grants. The Postal Service is missing more than half its service targets for mail products on which it has a monopoly. And the congressional push continues to guarantee the death of Schedule F.

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Justice Department issues data challenge to help address nation’s drug crisis

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 11:29:32 -0000

(4/4/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The State Department says recent budget cuts will lead to an overburdened workforce. The Department of Homeland Security is on the hunt for fresh cyber talent. And the Justice Department has issued a data challenge to help address the nation’s drug crisis.

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New chief diversity and inclusion officer headed to State Dept.

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 10:13:44 -0000

(4/3/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Pentagon's first-of-its-kind Commercial Space Integration Strategy comes out this week. The Office of Personnel Management is offering a webinar to people thinking about entering the federal workforce. And a new chief diversity and inclusion officer is headed to the State Department.

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Women-owned small businesses win record $25.5B in federal contracts

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:15:57 -0000

(4/2/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy is updating its basic training phone call policy. The Census Bureau is looking to roll out a remote-work policy it drafted at the end of last year. And women-owned small businesses won a record $25.5 billion in federal contracts in fiscal 2023.

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OMB adds new category to federal requirements for collecting race, ethnicity data

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:20:41 -0000

(4/1/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department has established the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy. There is a new section to the FAR and it may be the most important change in decades. And an OMB working group has added Middle Eastern or North African to federal requirements for collecting race and ethnicity data.

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Agencies continue struggle with overspending when doling out benefits

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 11:59:24 -0000

(3/29/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Army has opened a central office to manage the relocation of military families with special needs. A data analytics tool used to fight COVID-19 fraud might be redeployed. And agencies continue to struggle with giving too much money to citizens when doling out benefits.

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Lawmakers call telework protest 'hypocritical'

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:33:00 -0000

(3/28/24) - Federal employees donated more than $68 million to this year’s Combined Federal Campaign. The DoD abortion policy, that Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) objected to, cost about $44,000 last year. And two lawmakers call a recent telework protest "hypocritical."

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Hand-to-phone combat: DoD marches toward social media to battle recruiting crisis

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:21:08 -0000

(3/27/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: TSP participants, receiving a full match, is once again on the rise. Senate lawmakers are advancing legislation that aims to bolster the security of government facilities. And in hand-to-phone combat, DoD is turning to social media to battle its recruiting crisis.

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Hackers have 'gone phishing' at State, targeting paychecks and pensions

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 10:31:15 -0000

(3/26/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Following a recent ransomware attack, the Senate Homeland Security Committee Chairman is calling on HHS to increase its oversight of cybersecurity in the healthcare sector. More Defense Department organizations are entering the Thunderdome. And hackers have gone phishing at the State Department, targeting paychecks and pensions.

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With an eye toward China and Russia, Senate Intelligence Committee asks DoD for advanced civil nuclear technology on U.S. bases

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:57:05 -0000

(3/25/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Vendors likely will have to wait a little longer for the final solicitation of the SEWP VI governmentwide acquisition contract. Congress bumps up the Defense Department's funding for artificial intelligence for this year. And with an eye toward China and Russia, the Senate Intelligence Committee is asking the pentagon for advanced civil nuclear technology on U.S. bases.

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New bill calls for permanent, renewed pipeline between federal unions, management

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:51:25 -0000

(3/22/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Innovation Unit could get a major funding boost. A powerful senator is asking the GAO to review the risks the Census Bureau faces, as it prepares for the 2030 count. And a new bill is calling for a more permanent path forward for better relationships between federal unions and management.

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Judge orders Army Corps of Engineers send whistleblower 'thank you letter'

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:13:14 -0000

(3/21/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Military families continue to discourage family members from joining the military. Meanwhile, the Army is looking to retirees to fill the ranks. And a judge with the Merit Systems Protection Board is ordering the Army Corps of Engineers to send a whistleblower a "thank you letter."

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Amid safety concerns, AFGE urges Congress to increase Bureau of Prison funding

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 10:47:18 -0000

(3/20/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: U.S. spy agencies are doubling down on efforts to harness open-source intelligence. A free, online tax preparation tool run by the IRS is gaining momentum. And a big employees union is warning of big dangers if the Bureau of Prisons fails to receive more funding.

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Coast Guard improves access to mental health care

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:13:03 -0000

(3/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: HHS is launching a probe into the huge cyber attack on Change Healthcare. GSA is ready to take the next step in setting up its new contract for cloud services. And the Coast Guard is improving access to mental health care for its service members.

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Supreme Court rules public officials cannot block critics on social media, even from personal accounts

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 10:45:47 -0000

(3/18/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department has a new director in charge of security clearances. Wildland firefighters are still fighting for a permanent pay increase. And the Supreme Court has ruled that, in many cases, public officials cannot block their critics on social media, even from their personal accounts.

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White House looking to invest more in younger workforce in government

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:35:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration is eyeing more investments for federal early-career hiring in fiscal 2025.

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Secret Service beginning preps to welcome soccer fans from all over the world

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:30:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Secret Service is warming up plans for one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

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Federal employee groups want to know why civilians can't get the same raise as military members this year

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:59:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal groups and unions are less than pleased with the White House's proposed 2% raise for civilian feds in 2025

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White House wants Congress to give IRS back promised Inflation Reduction Act funds

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House wants Congress to reverse a big cut to the IRS’ multi-year modernization fund.

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New instructions to help agencies to re-establish relationships with federal employee unions

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 15:46:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies and federal unions just got marching orders to re-establish labor-management forums.

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Marines become first military branch to ever pass financial audit

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:16:53 -0000

(3/8/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A new-and-improved effort is underway to sell federal buildings. Agencies and vendors have until Monday to give feedback to the FedRAMP cloud security program on its draft Emerging Technology Framework. And it's not like storming a beach, but the Marines Corps becomes the first military branch in history to pass a financial audit.

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DoD slated to receive over $18B for military construction initiatives

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 13:07:53 -0000

(3/7/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Government Publishing Office has a new CHCO. VA efforts have accelerated to hire and market jobs to military spouses. And the Defense Department is slated to receive over $18 billion for military construction initiatives.

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New House bill specifies how agencies should use artificial intelligence

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 12:42:02 -0000

(3/6/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: When it comes to safety, many federal buildings can't keep up, according to the Government Accountability Office. The National Cyber Director is touting progress on the White House’s cyber efforts. And a new House bill specifies how agencies should buy, use and manage artificial intelligence.

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VA finalizes new abortion rule for all states

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 11:51:00 -0000

(3/5/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Funding for IT modernization at one agency is slated to get a boost this year. CISA says hackers are still exploiting vulnerabilities in a widely used VPN service. And the VA finalizes its new abortion rule that will apply to all 50 states.

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Lawmakers weekend effort delivers six funding bills, as government-shutdown-fuse burns slowly toward detonation

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:45:02 -0000

(3/4/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Commandant of the Marine Corps is still waiting to get the all-clear from his doctors, since his January heart surgery. The PLUM Book is one step closer to its hard-copy demise. And some lawmakers worked over the weekend to deliver a package of six funding bills, as the government shutdown bomb continues to tick.

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DoD contractors slip the grip of new environmental regulations

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:29:44 -0000

(3/1/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: . President Biden names his former Labor Secretary to the Postal Service Board of Governors. The Social Security Administration is getting a new technology leader. And Congress helps DoD contractors slip the grip of new greenhouse-gas reporting regulations.

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Agencies need to do more to train employees on workplace sexual harassment prevention, GAO says

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:14:58 -0000

(2/29/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The White House is considering new recommendations for agencies to take action on critical infrastructure security. The FDA has outlined six goals driving its technology modernization. And the GAO says agencies need to do more training to prevent workplace sexual harassment.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thrift Savings Plan board prepares for government shutdown

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:10:43 -0000

(2/28/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Army is cutting about 24,000 military positions, as it restructures itself for large-scale combat operations. The Energy Department is handing out $45 million for 16 new cybersecurity projects. And the board, over at the Thrift Savings Plan, prepares for a government shutdown.

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House VA Committee Chairman takes closer look at recent sexual harassment scandal

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:15:00 -0000

(2/27/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The White House is shining a light on a major source of cybersecurity risks. A new policy will increase drinking water system oversight across all Navy installations. And House VA Committee Chairman Mike Bost is taking a closer look at the recent sexual harassment scandal at VA.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whistleblowers exposing fraud pocket over $350M

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:51:54 -0000

(2/26/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The FCC moves toward establishing an “Energy Star” type labeling program for cybersecurity. Navy’s new council will focus on enhancing supply chain resilience. And Whistleblowing is a growth industry, as those exposing fraud pocket hundreds of millions of dollars.

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Fraudster hacks federal auction website, buys truck for a dollar

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 12:39:17 -0000

(2/23/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Justice Department has named a Princeton professor as its first chief science and technology adviser. Some new proposals for cybersecurity standards and regulations are causing industry heartburn. And an Oklahoma man faces prison time, for hacking into a federal online auction site and getting some pretty good deals.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Top DoD intelligence official retiring

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 12:43:43 -0000

(2/22/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A top Defense Department intelligence official is retiring. U.S. Central Command is about to release its own data strategy. And the U.S. Special Operations Command is seeking feedback from small businesses.

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NSA cyber official retiring

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 11:43:53 -0000

(2/21/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Agriculture Department is launching a Digital Service Fellows Program. Lawmakers want the next military budget to focus on the well being of service members and their families. And one of the National Security Agency’s top cyber officials is retiring.

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Pentagon IG not impressed by effectiveness of DoD vendors' award fees

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:40:39 -0000

(2/20/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Army is looking for international innovators to share their novel technology solutions. CISA is renewing a task force to examine artificial intelligence and other critical technology issues. And the Pentagon IG questions the effectiveness of "awards fees" for DoD vendors.

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Congresswoman blasts GSA for making Chinese-tech purchases

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 11:57:33 -0000

(2/16/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Congresswoman Nancy Mace is taking on the GSA for making Chinese-tech purchases. The Social Security Administration is taking a new approach to try to reduce improper payments. And Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has a few choice words for contractors.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bloody syringes in VA hospital laundry bins, inject 'better staff training' into GAO recommendation

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 12:49:19 -0000

(2/15/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy has updated its uniform-and-personal-appearance policy. Bloody syringes in a VA hospital laundry bin, get the attention of GAO. And the Coast Guard has a new lead technology executive.

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Feds get details via video on how snow days determined

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:42:46 -0000

(2/14/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A DoD contractor pleads guilty to shafting domestic suppliers, by buying cheaper parts overseas. The Navy is using AI to optimize personnel assignments. And federal employees can now watch a video on a snow day, on how snow days are determined.

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NASA names new small business programs director

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 12:19:25 -0000

(2/13/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: U.S. Cyber Command gets federal laboratory designation. NASA names Dwight Deneal as its new director of small business programs. And veterans exposed to Agent Orange might soon find it easier to get VA health benefits.

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Decade of pay stagnation continues for for VP, senior political appointees

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 12:36:58 -0000

(2/12/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Congressional Research Service is hiring a new director. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services completed 10 million cases last year, to boast a 15% backlog reduction. And a decade of no pay raises continues for the Vice President and senior political appointees.

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Oregon senator urges Biden to fire Social Security's IG

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 12:15:33 -0000

(2/9/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A new tutorial video is out to help feds through the retirement process. NIH has a new director of its Center for Information Technology. And Senator Ron Wyden wants the IG at Social Security to be fired.

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Federal-watchdog impersonators make phone calls in 'money-laundering' scam

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 13:24:21 -0000

(2/8/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Department of Homeland Security plans to go on an AI hiring spree. Lawmakers urge OPM to do more to make feds aware of paid-parental-leave options. And some phone-calling scammers attempt to steal cash through a money-laundering hoax.

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Intelligence Community gets another new big-agency leader

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 11:38:03 -0000

(2/7/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Senate confirms Kurt Campbell as the next deputy secretary of state. The Office of Management and Budget is looking to add a chief customer experience officer to its ranks. And there’s a new face in charge at another one of the country's largest intelligence agencies.

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Gen. Timothy Haugh takes charge of the NSA, U.S. Cyber Command

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 13:10:34 -0000

(2/6/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Nineteen federal experts have some ideas on how to strengthen the budget process. Congress attempts to strengthen protections for the 22 million feds victimized by the decade-old OPM data breach. And there’s a new general in charge at the National Security Agency.

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Biggest leak in agency history, gets ex-CIA officer 40-year prison sentence

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 11:37:39 -0000

(2/5/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Two Democratic lawmakers are asking the GAO to assess the damage done to the military by Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.). The Office of Management and Budget wants to bring the power of AI to privacy impact assessments. And the biggest leak in CIA history, gets a former employee a 40-year prison sentence.

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AFGE expresses fears about future telework cuts for Social Security employees

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 13:25:37 -0000

(2/2/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The American Federation of Government Employees expresses fears about future telework cuts for Social Security employees. The U.S. European Command is seeking federal employees and government contractors to participate in its first-ever AI hackathon. And agencies have until midnight to shut down software that has been hit with dangerous cyber vulnerabilities.

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Red Sea chaos jacks up relocation costs for feds around the world

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:51:26 -0000

(2/1/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The White House is widening the rule prohibiting employers from asking potential employees about their salary history. Cloud infrastructure providers are getting new cybersecurity requirements. And the chaos surrounding Red Sea shipping routes, has jacked up the cost to relocate federal employees.

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Social Security HQ employees ordered to increase in-person work starting April 7

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:19:54 -0000

(1/31/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The cyber threat from Chinese infiltrators continues to grow, according to an outgoing Army general. The Department of Veterans Affairs got more than 46,000 homeless veterans into permanent housing last year. And employees at Social Security headquarters are ordered to increase in-person work, starting in April.

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Former Acting IG gets 18-month prison term in software theft

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:33:07 -0000

(1/30/25) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy no longer requires a high school diploma to enlist. A long-time federal technology executive is retiring. And a former Acting IG has been sentenced to 18 months in prison in a software-theft conspiracy.

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FDIC sex, work-culture scandals catch Sen. Joni Ernst's attention, ire

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 14:00:54 -0000

(1/29/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is expected to make a full recovery, according to doctors at Walter Reed Military Medical Center. The Department of Homeland Security is pushing hard to improve customer experience. And sex and work-culture scandals at the FDIC catch the attention and ire of Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa).

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White House awaits agency plans today on how to decrease telework

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 12:41:50 -0000

(1/26/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The White House has set new expectations for how agencies should support small-business contracting. The Marine Corps is moving away from strictly using the Force Design 2030 label. And it's deadline day, as the White House awaits agency plans on how to decrease telework.

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Too many CRs will have catastrophic effects on DoD, Air Force official says

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 12:37:18 -0000

(1/25/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The undersecretary of the Air Force said the failure to pass all 12 regular appropriations will have catastrophic effects on the Defense Department. Feds, who relocate for work, may soon have better coverage of their moving expenses. And National Institutes of Health's governmentwide acquisition contract, adds to its record-breaking number of bid protests.

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Congressioinal repeal of Social Security's 'evil twins,' nears finish line

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:39:19 -0000

(1/24/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Government Accountability Office is not impressed with the data used in some important security-clearance decisions. The State Department is trying to get more mid-career professionals to join the Foreign Service. And the possibility of repealing Social Security's so-called 'evil twins" is closer than ever to the finish line.

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Navy revamps its pregnancy policy

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:16:21 -0000

(1/23/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Securities and Exchange Commission has figured out how its official X account was hacked. The Technology Modernization Fund program management office has new temporary leadership. And the U.S. Navy gives birth to a new pregnancy policy.

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False Claims Act fine, against Gen Digital, raised by $50 million

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 12:36:17 -0000

(1/22/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A District of Columbia federal judge has raised the False Claims Act fine against Gen Digital by $50 million. The Labor Department is trying to help agencies gain access to more disabled job candidates. And DoD has taken another step to make it easier for military retirees and dependents to renew their DoD-issued ID cards online.

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Half-empty, half-full government-shutdown-can kicked down the road, again

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 11:53:46 -0000

(1/19/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: More oversight is coming to make sure agencies are using secure cloud services. NTEU leader Doreen Greenwald is expected to land at the Federal Salary Council. And the half-full and a half-empty government-shutdown-can has been kicked down the road, again.

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GSA's Polaris contract pulled back into protest vortex

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:46:42 -0000

(1/18/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Securities and Exchange Commission is planning to update its workforce strategies. A CIA technology leader is headed to the private sector. And GSA's Polaris contract is pulled back into the protest vortex.

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VA looks to reduce child-birth mortality rate for women veterans

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 12:38:07 -0000

(1/17/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: National Cyber Director Harry Coker calls for more diversity when hiring for federal cyber jobs. The Space Development Agency has made $2.5 billion worth of awards to build its tracking layer. And the VA is looking to reduce the child-birth mortality rate for women veterans.

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Senate committee continues its scrutiny of sexual harassment claims against VA DEI office

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:34:04 -0000

(1/16/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Senate VA committee continues it pointed scrutiny of sexual harassment claims against the VA DEI office. The government’s top and first DEI official is headed to "the happiest place on Earth." And speaking of happiness, feds in the DMV got a snow day today.

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Postmaster General DeJoy rejoices over new package-business customers

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 13:14:36 -0000

(1/12/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Postmaster General DeJoy rejoices over new package-business customers. The National Treasury Employees Union sounds the alarm over a potential government shutdown. And with a partial government shutdown a week away, the Senate considers a short-term continuing resolution.

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Adm. Lisa Franchetti lays out plans for 'America’s Warfighting Navy'

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:43:29 -0000

(1/11/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Since June 2023, the first permanent chief human capital officer at GSA is waiting in the wings. The chief of naval operations crafts a one-page document called, "America's Warfighting Navy." And federal facilities still present physical barriers for disabled feds.

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More Bureau of Prisons pay incentives get death penalty

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 13:04:20 -0000

(1/10/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has a new inspector general. Holiday returns keep the Postal Service busy and raking in the cash. And more Bureau of Prisons pay incentives get the death penalty.

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America's enemies could poison AI data, NIST warns

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 11:52:43 -0000

(1/9/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: A former federal cyber leader finds her next gig. NIST warns that American adversaries could poison AI data. And the Pentagon is ordering a 30-day review to look into the secrecy surrounding Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization.

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TSP sends out info on recalculated life expectancy numbers

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 11:50:41 -0000

(1/8/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some TSP participants can expect some information about recalculated life expectancy numbers. The VA plans new research using psychedelics to treat PTSD and depression. And billions in cuts to the IRS have just been accelerated.

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Full-year CR could mean big cuts to agency discretionary budgets

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 12:48:00 -0000

(1/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Rocks are falling from the ceiling at an IRS underground storage facility. A full-year Continuing Resolution could require big cuts to agency discretionary budgets. And the latest skinny on Fat Leonard.

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White House seeks new tech exec

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 14:14:09 -0000

(1/4/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some 500 correctional officers are seeking justice at the Department of Justice. Former GSA executive Sonny Hashmi uncorks his 2024 private-sector persona for Unqork. And the White House is seeking a new CIO, a sort of SES tech exec.

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Key tech, cyber official leaves OMB for GSA

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:51:37 -0000

(1/3/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: The military's Joint Staff finally has a Senate-confirmed chief information officer. The Postal Service reminds former employees that certain ethics rules still apply. And a key technology and cyber official is heading to GSA from OMB.

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New year, new rules for GSA contracting officers

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:45:45 -0000

(1/2/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Congress wants to know how many people have access to secret information. The Department of Transportation sees some big cybersecurity improvements coming in 2024. And the new year brings in new rules for GSA contracting officers.

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Thousands of vendors fail to comply with ban on Chinese telecommunications equipment

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 12:44:13 -0000

(12/29/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some 6,000 vendors fail to comply with the ban on Chinese telecommunications equipment. A tiny agency has cleared it's backlog of incident reports in time for 2024. And the Marines Corps is looking for a new chief information security officer.

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Thousands of federal dollars in retention bonuses, are not retained in 2024

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 12:57:37 -0000

(12/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Thousands of dollars in retention bonuses, are not retained for the new year. Federal facility safety stations get their first upgrade in 15 years. And Rocket Lab lands a half-billion-dollar government contract.

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OPM proposes new pay rules for feds working above their paygrade

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 13:40:54 -0000

(12/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Foggy Bottom has signed an agreement with the Smithsonian to assist in international expansion. New requirements in the law, require better living conditions in military barracks. And the Office of Management and Budget is proposing new pay rules for feds working above their pay grade.

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Sen. Rand Paul's Festivus Report 'waste shames' specific government spending

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 11:52:00 -0000

(12/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: If you're in the government, you may or may not see more pay in 2024. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) waste shames specific government spending in his 9th Annual Festivus Report. And agencies have new guidance to promote more public engagement in federal rulemaking.

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IG criticizes IRS effort to enforce TikTok ban

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:29:12 -0000

(12/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Security Agency issues its cybersecurity year-in-review report. A new document calls on DoD to improve its processes for civilian harm reduction. And the Treasury IG says the IRS needs to do more to enforce the TikTok ban.

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Years flying at warp speed, lands SPACECOM as fully operational on 4th anniversary

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 14:27:13 -0000

(12/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some federal correctional officers are set to lose pay bonuses in 10 days. The White House forms a task force to fight fraud against veterans. And on its fourth anniversary, the U.S. Space Force commander says SPACECOM has reached its full operational capability.

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Seven federal agencies banding together to form the Biden Administration's "Climate Corps”

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:31:54 -0000

(12/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh has been nominated to be the next NSA director and commander of U.S. Cyber Command. Seven federal agencies are banding together to form the Biden Administration's "Climate Corps.” And it took three years, but the Navy finally has a new acquisition chief.

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DoD IG blames systemic flaws for potential overprescribing of opioids

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 12:26:22 -0000

(12/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Martin O'Malley turned 60 this year; Now he gets to run the Social Security Administration. The Defense Department IG is warning that systemic problems with military health care, could be leading to opioids being overprescribed. And one of the Energy Department’s major labs is creating a new hub for artificial intelligence research.

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Manufacturer of bug-repellent combat uniforms, stung with Justice Dept charges

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:49:40 -0000

(12/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Army and Air Force Exchange Service employees in Germany vote to join AFGE. A company that makes bug-repellent combat uniforms, is stung with charges from the Justice Department. And HHS has developed a suite of tools other agencies can use to improve grant management.

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Bipartisan bill aims to increase annual salary from $195K to $280K for VA radiation specialists

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 12:48:41 -0000

(12/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Defense Authorization Act looks like it is headed for a smooth landing on the President's desk for signature. Senate Republicans say they smell a rat, in the case of the missing OPM use-of-official-time webpage. And a bipartisan bill in congress aims to increase the salary of VA radiation specialists from an annual $195K to $280K.

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Senate bill would fire feds convicted of sexual assault

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 14:16:15 -0000

(12/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Office of Personnel Management serves up a few onboarding reminders. The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act clears its latest hurdle. And Sen. Joni Ernst wants feds fired who get convicted of a sexual assault.

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As plans for a new FBI HQ chug along, the old building falls apart

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 13:00:41 -0000

(12/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Harry Coker has been confirmed as the next national cyber director. The Bureau of Prisons tries to deal with a 40% shortage of correctional officers nationwide. And as plans for a news FBI headquarters putter along, the old building falls apart.

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DARPA kicks off its 10-year plan to create a 'thriving lunar economy'

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 12:28:08 -0000

(12/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Small Business Administration is redefining small. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is rolling out a new cybersecurity tool for agencies. And DARPA makes plans to build a booming economy on the moon.

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Money for DoD's Armed Forces Retirement Homes running out, GAO says

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:31:20 -0000

(12/11/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The GAO looks to improve agency adoption of agile and iterative software development. The U.S. Space Force has officially activated its component for Europe and Africa. And GAO is projecting money for DoD's Armed Forces Retirement Homes is running out.

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Blindsided by pay problems, certain VA medical employees might be allowed union help

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:15:07 -0000

(12/8/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Park Service offers the best customer experience in the government, according to research firm Forrester. The chief management officer is not coming back to the Defense Department. And blindsided by pay problems, certain VA medical employees might be allowed union help.

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VA failing to detect drug felons during hiring process, GAO says

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 13:14:48 -0000

(12/7/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: DoD's Electronic Health Record problems, are still a big factor in military recruiting challenges. The GAO says the Department of Veterans Affairs is failing to detect drug felons during the hiring process. And the Senate has confirmed the new Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency.

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GAO blames staffing shortages for agencies' failures to battle cyber attacks

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:50:19 -0000

(12/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) has lifted his abortion-driven hold on military promotions. Job satisfaction at the Homeland Security Department has increased. And GAO blames staffing shortages for the failure of federal agencies to battle cyber attacks.

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Month after defeat, Virginia lawmakers still fighting to land FBI HQ

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:33:52 -0000

(12/5/23) - On today's Federal Newscast: CENTCOM's got a new chief data officer. A month after the decision was announced, Virginia lawmakers are still fighting to be the site of the new FBI headquarters. And the Internet of Things looms large in OMB's 2024 FISMA guidance.

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Senators want to scrap TSA's use of facial recognition

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 12:57:26 -0000

(12/04/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some Senators have introduced legislation to scrap TSA's use of facial recognition at airports. The Office of Special Counsel warns federal employees about expressing partisan opinions on the war in Gaza. And Speaker Mike Johnson just received a letter saying money for Ukraine is running.

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Joint Chiefs Chairman warns against year-long CR

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:32:06 -0000

(12/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: GSA's Inspector General will scrutinize the decision to relocate the FBI HQ to Greenbelt, Maryland. Gen. CQ Brown spells out the dangers of a year-long CR, from his perch as Joint Chiefs Chairman. And the Merit Systems Protection Board is close to filling the final spot on its three-member panel.

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VA surpasses goal to permanently find shelter for homeless veterans

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 12:50:08 -0000

(11/30/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Cyber Accreditation Body has a new leader. The Department of Veterans Affairs has surpassed its goal to permanently house veterans experiencing homelessness. And SmartPay celebrates its 25th anniversary with a facelift of its website.

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Labor Dept employees will be greeted by 2024 with less telework

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:40:42 -0000

(11/29/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The State Department is setting records issuing visitor visas. Maryland's former governor is getting closer-to-confirmation to run the Social Security Administration. And Labor Department employees will be greeted by 2024 with less telework.

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Stamp prices increase for fifth time in three years

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 13:20:34 -0000

(11/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Stamp prices will go up again. (That's five times since 2021). A new IARPA Program will try to expose perpetrators behind cyber attacks based on coding styles. And the Defense Department is seeking to update its acquisition regulations.

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Pentagon leaders call hold on military officers' confirmations 'problematic'

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 13:44:07 -0000

(11/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Secretaries of the Army and Air Force call the hold on the confirmation of hundreds of military officers "problematic." The GAO reports that the federal workforce is more diverse than the nationwide labor force. And improper payments crept up in 2023.

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To stay employed, military spouses continue to battle their highly-mobile lifestyles

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 12:48:38 -0000

(11/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy has a new 14-page cyber strategy that was published yesterday. House lawmakers want to offer more help to military spouses who battle mobility in order to keep their jobs. And the National Archives and Records Administration is on track to eliminate the veterans records backlog by January.

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New bill aims to raise pay of blue-collar federal employees

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:49:28 -0000

(11/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A new bill aims to raise the pay for blue-collar federal employees. CISA is expanding its cyber services beyond federal agencies. And if you'd like to ghost write for Santa, USPS has a deal for you.

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Senate panel takes big step to help end hold on nearly 370 military nominations

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 13:10:23 -0000

(11/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Postponing maintenance at federal buildings is costing the government $22 billion. The White House has temporarily filled a top cyber job. And a Senate committee has taken a big step to help end the hold on nearly 370 military nominations.

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Over 33,000 federal employees will see additional raises in fiscal 2024

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 13:05:09 -0000

(11/17/23) - In today's episode of the Federal Newscast: The Defense Department is still the only federal department that's never earned a clean audit opinion. GOP lawmakers are trying to override a controversial cybersecurity regulation. And locality pay strikes again, as more than 33,000 federal employees will see additional raises in January.

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GSA sees record spending through its contracts for IT products, services

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 13:12:44 -0000

(11/16/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS's new CIO makes a move with vast experience and success modernizing legacy technology. Several key Biden administration nominees are moving forward in the Senate. And the GSA sees record spending through its contracts for IT products and services.

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Fort McNair Army civilian guilty of abusing his GSA gas card

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 14:02:16 -0000

(11/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A Fort McNair Army civilian is guilty of charging thousands of dollars on a GSA gas card. A deputy archivist ends her federal service after more than three decades. And the Pentagon has a new responsible artificial intelligence toolkit.

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DoD official, connected to dogfighting ring, replaced

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 12:49:16 -0000

(11/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Technology Modernization Fund Board awards $3.5 million to establish an online "lost and found” registry for unclaimed retirement benefits. A DoD official arrested last month for involvement in a dogfighting ring, has been replaced. And Kemba Walden will step down as acting National Cyber Director at the end of the week.

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OPM website is your snow-day indicator

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 13:32:17 -0000

(11/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: GSA is setting up a new contract to help agencies mitigate their supply chain risks. Congressional leaders want an update on how agencies are using AI tools. And as you brace for a government shutdown, how about a snow day?

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Bain Capital pays $5.3B to acquire consulting firm Guidehouse

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 11:21:33 -0000

(11/9/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Bain Capital has bought consulting firm Guidehouse for $5.3 billion. There’s new leadership at one of the largest federal law enforcement employee groups. And the head of the Pentagon office responsible for investigating UFOs has identified retirement as his next step.

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TSP millionaires nearing 100K

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 13:05:01 -0000

(11/8/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The size of the U.S. military has dropped nearly 3%. FEMA and CISA publish a first-ever guide for emergency managers to prepare for attack. And the number of TSP millionaires jumps to nearly 100,000.

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Data brokers selling veterans' sensitive health, financial data online, study shows

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 12:51:46 -0000

(11/7/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The GSA is pouring $2 billion into sustainable construction projects. Data brokers are selling sensitive information like health and financial data of current and former military personnel. And Jane Rathbun is losing her "acting" title as the Navy Department's chief information officer.

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CIO Council delivers new guide for managing cloud services

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:01:47 -0000

(11/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Polaris is facing yet another protest. A federal watchdog has found multiple cases of risky mobile apps downloaded onto ICE devices. And the CIO Council has delivered a new guide for managing cloud services.

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Senate confirms first woman to serve on Joint Chiefs of Staff

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 12:16:25 -0000

(11/3/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: In an effort to avoid problems, a Senate bill looks to mandate the use of an AI playbook. An industry association is calling for the streamlining of software compliance requirements from the federal government. And the U.S. Senate confirms the first woman to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

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Senate takes a big step to avoid a government shutdown

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:17:14 -0000

(11/2/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: President Biden plans to nominate a new second-in-command at the State Department. Military families could see improvements to housing, child care and school-meal access. And the Senate takes a big step to avoid a government shutdown.

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SEC suing SolarWinds and CISO over Russian hack

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 11:38:08 -0000

(11/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The SEC is suing SolarWinds and its Chief Information Security Officer for "defrauding investors." The Pentagon prepares to launch an artificial intelligence pilot program. And spending on classified intelligence activities has taken a big jump to nearly $100 billion.

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Marine Corps Commandant suffers serious health episode

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:47:03 -0000

(10/31/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Gen. Eric Smith, the commandant of the Marine Corps, has suffered what appears to be a serious health episode. Agencies have received updated guidance for the type of infrastructure projects that the Buy American Act applies to. And House Republicans propose taking away billions of dollars in IRS modernization money and using it for aid to Israel.

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Furlough warning from Federal Labor Relations Authority Chairman

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:17:00 -0000

(10/30/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy's principal cyber advisor is leaving government. Correctional officers at Leavenworth federal penitentiary are holding a picket line today. And the Federal Labor Relations Authority Chairman sounds a warning about furloughs.

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State Dept and USAID psychiatrists spread thin, as demand for mental health services overseas rises

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 11:18:41 -0000

(10/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Federal employees’ demand for mental health services overseas is rising, but help for them is spread thin. HHS surpasses targets for hiring military spouses. And bid protests spiked in fiscal 2022.

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Bill would make non-feds, who work at tribally controlled schools, TSP eligible

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 11:54:25 -0000

(10/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Thousands of non-feds would be eligible to join the Thrift Savings Plan under a new bill. Agencies must award at least 13% of all their prime contracts to Small Disadvantaged Businesses this fiscal year. And survivors of civilian federal employees, killed in the line of duty, are a step closer to receiving greater death benefits.

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TSP participants can now make unlimited checks into loan applications, at any time

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 11:59:51 -0000

(10/25/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: TSP participants can now check on their loan applications at any time, as often as they would like. Dozens of companies are urging Congress to create a $1 billion hedge portfolio. And a new online tool should help streamline Freedom of Information Act requests.

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GSA plans for new service to make paying travel expenses easier for feds

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 11:54:12 -0000

(10/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The EEOC swears in a new general counsel, who happens to be blind. DoJ has launched a new online tool to inform attorneys about Pro Bono opportunities. And GSA is planning a new service to make paying for travel and expenses easier across the federal government.

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IRS crackdown on wealthy tax cheats brings in millions of dollars, in early stages

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 11:07:50 -0000

(10/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Several GPO workers have filed a lawsuit, alleging a pervasive workplace culture of racism and sexism. The Biden administration is kicking off the first update to the national cyber incident response plan in seven years. And the IRS crackdown on wealthy tax cheats is bringing in millions of dollars.

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Federal contracting dollars for women-owned small business remain below 5%

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 11:43:51 -0000

(10/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: FEMA is asking the public to test features on its mobile app. Military records destroyed in a 1973 fire, leave some vets from the 1960s trying to prove service. And federal contracting dollars for women-owned small business continue to remain below 5%.

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Senate bill would improve death benefits for civilian feds

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 12:34:00 -0000

(10/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sen. Sinema (I-Ariz.) has introduced a bill that would improve death benefits for civilian feds. The SBA has come under fire for planning to ignore pandemic loans under $100,000. And the Coast Guard is looking into AI to catch illegal fishermen.

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DoD awards $40M in research grants to four Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 11:50:18 -0000

(10/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department has awarded $40 million dollars in research grants to four Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Federal employees and supervisors will get even more hybrid-work training opportunities. And, heading toward the 2030 count, the Census Bureau looks for public feedback.

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Stage is set for the awards ceremony to recognize outstanding feds

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 14:59:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Partnership for Public Service is out with the latest crop of Service to America Medals, or "Sammies," winners.

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Navy moves to shutdown Pear Harbor facility that leaked contaminated water

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 12:01:06 -0000

(10/16/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The GSA is taking another step to measure how technology vendors are protecting their supply chains. The Navy moves to shutdown a facility at Pearl Harbor that leaked contaminated water. And the IRS has spent $2 billion to rebuild its workforce and modernize its legacy IT systems.

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Could teleworking be the key to getting more military spouses federal jobs?

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:26:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal agencies may get tools to hire military and law enforcement spouses as well as veterans quickly for remote positions.

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The Army has its sights set on Gen Zers

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:14:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army Enterprise Marketing Office is modernizing its efforts to help reach Generation Z.

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New Army chief of staff targets 'the network' as his top modernization priority

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 12:11:50 -0000

(10/11/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some feds in the Evergreen State might soon get a boost in locality pay. The new Army chief of staff targets "the network" as his top modernization priority. And an IT leader for the Marine Corps has moved on.

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Out with the old, in with the new, as the Army tries new pilot program to off load some of its expired equipment

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:59:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army’s trying to modernize just about everything right now – from helicopters to vehicles to radios. But if it’s going to afford all that, it also needs to get rid of old stuff.

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Postal Service crackdown on theft not delivering

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 11:21:20 -0000

(10/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Federal cyber specialists have a new Top 10 List for what not to do when it comes to protecting your network. The Defense Department provides insight into its first awards under the JWCC vehicle. And the Postal Service crackdown on theft is not delivering.

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OPM reminds agencies to report telework data accurately

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 12:32:00 -0000

(10/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS may have over-estimated the public demand for a government-run online platform to file taxes. OPM reminds agencies to report telework data accurately. And Open Season is fast-approaching, meaning its time for feds to scrutinize their health care options.

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Senators move to financially protect contractors during government shutdowns

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 11:41:33 -0000

(10/4/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Virginia's two U.S. Senators make a move to protect contractors in the event of future government shutdowns. Getting an abortion at VA facilities across America is not as difficult as you might think. And the Army has made major changes to its recruitment process.

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Dog-fighting ring leads to arrest of DoD official

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:00:14 -0000

(10/3/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Half of America's federal wildland firefighters say they will quit if their temporary pay raise is not made permanent. The State Department has measurably picked-up the pace for issuing passports. And a high-ranking DoD official has been charged with facilitating a dog-fighting ring.

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National Archives issues new guidance to ensure agencies properly manage federal records on platforms like Zoom

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:00:54 -0000

(10/2/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Archives has issued a new guidance to ensure agencies properly manage federal records created on so-called collaboration platforms. The VA expands it burial benefits to families transporting veterans remains to state or tribal veterans' cemeteries. And the Interior Department will no longer buy or sell single-use plastic products.

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OPM continues effort to encourage hiring of military spouses

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 12:32:23 -0000

(9/29/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Postal Regulatory Commission remains at full strength, as it implements its 10-year reform plan. The Department of Homeland Security plans to develop a special hiring system for cybersecurity positions. And OPM has extended the effort to encourage the hiring of military spouses.

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Will a fiscal-calendar date change make future government-shutdown threats disappear?

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 11:59:54 -0000

(9/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Homeland Security Committee Republicans want to block funding for a new panel of intelligence advisers that includes Clapper and Brennan. OMB updates FAQs that help agencies prepare for government shutdowns. And will a change in the fiscal calendar help eliminated future government-shutdown threats? Sen. Kaine (D-Va.) thinks so.

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Schumer, McConnell offer up 45-day shutdown solution

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:37:05 -0000

(9/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The leaders in the U.S. Senate have an agreement. Now what? Since 2020, IRS chatbots have assisted over 13 million American taxpayers. And the 2023 Combined Federal Campaign is ready to take your donations.

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OMB tells agencies to update plans for a government shutdown

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 11:54:47 -0000

(9/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: USPS wanted to break even this fiscal year. Instead, it has lost nearly $7 billion. The CIO-SP4 governmentwide acquisition contract might finally be in the home stretch. And OMB tells agencies to update their plans for a government shutdown.

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VA takes back nearly $10M in bonuses

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 12:04:03 -0000

(9/25/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Half the time, GAO says, America's 450 F-35 fighters are grounded because of maintenance issues. GSA again extends the due date for bids for OASIS+. And the VA is taking back nearly $10 million in bonuses.

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Air Force abruptly cancels a huge cybersecurity solicitation

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:28:05 -0000

(9/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A State Department contractor has been arrested for allegedly sharing classified information with a foreign government. Cisco Systems is buying cybersecurity and data firm Splunk for $28 billion, in a cash deal. And the Air Force abruptly cancels a huge cybersecurity solicitation.

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Legionnaires’ disease bacteria in the water of some federal buildings, GSA IG says

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:53:00 -0000

(9/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: OMB Director Shalanda Young warns that a continuing resolution could discontinue hiring. CQ Brown gets the green light to replace Mark Milley. And the GSA IG says the water in some federal buildings could give you Legionnaires’ disease.

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Congressmen raise concerns about child care during government shutdown

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 11:54:34 -0000

(9/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Two congressmen are raising concerns about child care for essential workers during a government shutdown. D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton has introduced a bill to keep the D.C. court system open during a government shutdown. And a conference committee prepares to hammer out differences over the annual defense authorization bill.

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DHS threat assessment anticipates "likely" cyber attacks on 2024 elections

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 11:18:42 -0000

(9/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: After three crashes, two of them deadly, the Marines halt aviation for two days. A DHS threat assessment warns of "likely" cyber attacks on America's 2024 elections. And GAO has given its employees several hybrid and remote work options.

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Thousands of new high-paying IRS accountant jobs will help ferret out tax cheats

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:05:32 -0000

(9/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Homeland Security advisers are calling for technology investments that support remote work. A Congressional Investigation continues into potential COVID-19 record-keeping violations at NIH. And the IRS is in search of accountants for high-paying jobs to ferret out tax cheats.

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Low recruiting, high retention, putting financial strain on military

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:52:51 -0000

(9/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Low recruiting, but high retention, are putting a financial strain on the U.S. military. The Government Accountability Office estimates that 15% of COVID-19 unemployment relief money went to fraudsters. And feds can now donate unused time off to other feds impacted by Hurricane Idalia.

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DoD adjusts childcare fees, gives military families financial boost

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 12:21:42 -0000

(9/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department has adjusted childcare fees to give military families a financial boost. The Veterans Affairs Department is ready to spruce up its delivery of digital services. And the Energy Department allocates $39 million for nine new cyber projects at national labs.

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Warnings have begun about ramifications of government shutdown

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:52:00 -0000

(9/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The alarm bells can be heard almost everywhere about the negative impacts of a government shutdown. The Labor Department's spending on new technology has skyrocketed in recent years. And the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is leaning into efforts to secure widely used software code.

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GOP bills would 'devastate the American people,' OMB director says

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:16:35 -0000

(9/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: OMB Director Shalanda Young says GOP budget proposals would "devastate the American people." A DoD IG report says 20% of sexual assaults are mishandled by the military health care system. And a Biden veto threat could mean a CR is inevitable.

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IRS cracks down hard on 1,600 deadbeat millionaires

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 11:29:18 -0000

(9/11/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS is using AI to crack down on 1,600 deadbeat millionaires. Microsoft has disclosed how Chinese hackers accessed the email account of America's commerce secretary. And the Air National Guard has teamed-up with the Commanders. The ones from the NFL.

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Big telework changes at Small Business Administration

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:36:37 -0000

(9/8/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: There are some big telework changes at the Small Business Administration. The Office of Personnel Management retirement claims backlog climbs for second straight month. And the Space Force has a new motto. We'll tell you what it is.

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Two lawmakers move to unalterably slam the door shut on government shutdowns

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 12:01:00 -0000

(9/7/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A senator and congressman are moving to end government shutdowns once and for all. The Office of the National Cyber Director is developing a new cyber-posture report to help evaluate the current state of American cybersecurity. And victims exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water, have a new way to resolve their claims.

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Army switches from GDIT to Leidos to run its multi-billion-dollar hardware contract vehicle

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 11:53:26 -0000

(9/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Federal job seekers with a criminal past get a little help from OPM. An IRS watchdog says the agency needs to handle the tax returns of rich people a little better. And the U.S. Army switches vendors to run its multi-billion-dollar hardware contract vehicle.

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COVID-compliance requirements in job postings are so 10 minutes ago, OPM says

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:18:13 -0000

(9/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: National Guardsmen from five states are helping fight wildfires in Louisiana. GSA is using the Inflation Reduction Act to make over 100 federal buildings all-electric. And OPM says its time to drop COVID-compliance stipulations in federal job postings.

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More GOP pressure on White House to explain telework philosophy

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 11:20:04 -0000

(9/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: There's more GOP pressure on the White House to explain its telework philosophy. New details are out on the impact of artificial intelligence on federal-agency missions. And TIGTA tells the IRS to do more to fight cyber threats.

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More than 1,500 federal personnel respond to Hurricane Idalia

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:09:00 -0000

(8/31/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Security Agency has a new deputy director. More than 1,500 federal personnel help to handle Hurricane Idalia's destruction. And the Postal Service is having problems delivering the correct amount of pay into its own employees' paychecks.

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Telework leads to feds 'phoning it in,' says senator seeking IG assessment

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:56:03 -0000

(8/30/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Following a critical report, the TSA is taking steps to improve its cybersecurity practices. Federal labor unions want the Senate to move fast to confirm Martin O’Malley to lead the Social Security Administration. And Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst wants an IG to see how badly telework has led to feds "phoning it in."

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Could we soon see a federal Department of Water?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:52:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, presidential advisors are calling for the creation of a “Department of Water” to confront what they say are rapidly evolving water crises.

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Confederate Civil War casualty A.P. Hill, has name removed from Virginia army base

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:29:49 -0000

(8/28/23) In today's Federal Newscast: Exceeding its goal, the VA finds housing for thousands of homeless veterans. An original digital services SWAT team celebrates nine years on the job. And Confederate General A.P. Hill just got his name removed from the army base that bore his name.

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Confederate Civil War casualty A.P. Hill has name removed from Virginia army base

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:20:00 -0000

(8/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Exceeding its goal, the VA finds housing for thousands of homeless veterans. An original digital services SWAT team celebrates nine years on the job. And Confederate Civil War officer A.P. Hill just got his name removed from the army base that bore his name.

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Inspector General detects big polygraph failure at DEA

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 12:09:46 -0000

(8/25/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Labor Department is struggling to retain drug intervention specialists in its Job Corps centers. The Justice Department IG says the background-check process for hiring DEA agents falls way short. And a powerful congressman wants to investigate the Space Command's decision to call Colorado home sweet home, and not Alabama.

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Labor Dept uncovers more improper spending of COVID relief funds

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:21:00 -0000

(8/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department now has an option to reach the cloud from outside the continental United States. The Postal Service says it can account for all of its employees on the Hawaiian island of Maui. And the Labor Department has uncovered more improper spending of COVID relief funds.

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TSP now has 89% satisfaction rate, FRTIB says

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:21:02 -0000

(8/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Staffing shortages are on the rise across America at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board says 89% of TSP participants are "satisfied." And the GSA says the once-troubled login.gov platform has turned the corner.

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Losing bidder again protests 10-year $65B DoD health care contract

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:43:33 -0000

(8/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: California lawmakers want more passport offices in their state. A losing bidder again protests a 10-year $65 billion DoD health care contract. And a CISA hiring spree, lands more than 1,300 new employees in just the past two years.

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House Dems say OPM's definition of infertility unfair to LGBTQ+ Community

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:02:50 -0000

(8/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: NTEU disaster relief grants are now available through the FEEA Assistance Fund. The Defense Department offers FEMA a big hand of assistance in Hawaii. And House Democrats say OPM's definition of infertility is unfair to the LGBTQ+ community.

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GSA attacks unconscious bias, with identity-verification technology

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:10:35 -0000

(8/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The General Services Administration is taking on unconscious bias, with identity-verification technology. The Patent office changes the name of its scholars program from Thomas Edison to Marian Croak. And sexual harassment at America's military academies shows no sign of improvement.

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Mental-health struggles remain a concern for those seeking security clearances, survey shows

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 10:30:04 -0000

(8/17/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Congress weighs-in on the process of how agencies are moving to the cloud. Mental-health struggles remain a concern for those seeking security clearances. And feds get a little boost in their reimbursable travel allowance.

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DoD mobilizes resources to help in Hawaii

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 11:26:25 -0000

(8/16/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The FBI is getting a new leader to take on insider threats. The Defense Department mobilizes resources to help in Hawaii. And the saga of the CIO-SP4 contract continues.

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House Republicans want to freeze hiring at the Education Department

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:50:07 -0000

(8/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: An IRS watchdog says the handling of sensitive taxpayer records is often sloppy. CISA launches a new program to help bolster the network security of critical infrastructure organizations. And Republicans look to "get feds out of the classroom" by freezing hiring at the Education Department.

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Telework pros and cons still unknown in the long run, GAO says

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 10:59:24 -0000

(8/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The recent Chinese hack of a Microsoft vulnerability, prompts DHS to step-up its analysis of all threats to cloud environments. The Postal Service is launching a new initiative to address declines in mail volume. And all those opinions on telework might all be wrong.

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The IRS appears to have counted out some taxpayers a bit too soon

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:50:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an IRS watchdog finds the agency incorrectly flagged tens of thousands of taxpayers as deceased.

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Labor Department now has better ability to dig into discrimination claims against federal contractors

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 14:49:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Labor Department's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs is strengthening its ability to investigate and remedy employment discrimination allegations filed against federal contractors.

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Agencies will soon be able to get feedback on what it's like working with them

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:03:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, five years since issuing the notice of proposed rulemaking, agencies can finally conduct 360 degree reviews with their contractors.

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Military recruiters may need to dive deeper on the kinds of folks they bring aboard

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 14:24:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department needs to do more to avoid recruiting criminals or political extremists.

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One of SBA's signature contracting programs is on hiatus

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 15:39:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Small Business Administration is putting a temporary pause on adding new applicants to its disadvantaged business program.

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As POTUS, DeSantis says he will "start slitting throats" of feds on day one

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 11:21:17 -0000

(8/4/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Military families will now be able to use $5,000 in pre-tax income to care for dependents. DoD's CIO mandates new rules for buying cloud services. And presidential candidate Ron DeSantis will "start slitting throats" of federal employees his first day on the job.

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Interior Dept. reduces telework for executives, supervisors, managers

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 11:11:57 -0000

(8/3/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The State Department has launched a Bureau of Global Health to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS. Airmen stuck overseas, due to lack of government money -- three weeks later -- have the funding. And top employees at the Interior Department get their telework opportunities cut to 50%.

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Congressman investigates 'overreach' of 'coercive' 2021 vaccination order for federal employees

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 11:47:05 -0000

(8/2/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Calling it "coercive," Ohio Congressman Brad Wenstrup goes after President Biden's 2021 get-it-or-be-fired vaccination order for feds. A union for federal employees is supporting a bill to make union dues tax deductible. And most Thrift Savings Plan funds were back in the black in July.

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Public trust in federal services more strongly influence by negativity

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 11:00:02 -0000

(8/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Thrift Savings Plan participants can now manage their installment payments in My Account. GSA is asking whether another change is required in the way agencies buy cloud services. And it's negative over positive when it comes to the public judging experiences with federal services.

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Ransomware attackers steal personal info of over 600K Medicare beneficiaries

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 12:03:51 -0000

(7/31/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Ransomware attackers steal the personal information of more than 600,000 Medicare beneficiaries. The Defense Department now has an independent military prosecutor for the most serious offenses. And the FDIC makes plans to plug three holes in the cloud.

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Senator wants agencies to investigate Microsoft's 'lax cybersecurity practices'

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 13:10:23 -0000

(7/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) wants agencies to investigate what he calls Microsoft's "lax cybersecurity practices." GSA's commercial platforms initiative is gaining steam. And Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wants answers to "price gouging" by TRICARE.

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New Air Force Chief of Staff awaits senate confirmation

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 12:23:20 -0000

(7/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A new Air Force Chief of Staff is waiting in the wings. A Justice Department employee group urges the attorney general to resist efforts to reduce telework. And Congress demands answers about the cancellation of MyTravel.

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Federal contractor guilty of a $7 million methodology mistake

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 11:24:06 -0000

(7/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Harry Coker, an alumnus of the NSA and CIA, is nominated to serve as national cyber director. In less than a fortnight, the Air Force reinstates its aviation retention bonuses. And a federal contractor is guilty of a $7 million methodology mistake.

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Group of military spouses plead with Senator Tommy Tuberville to release his hold on military appointments

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 15:06:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, military spouses call on Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama to end his block on Senate confirmed military appointments.

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A big pay day for a whistleblower from a major government contractor

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 17:15:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a government contractor agrees to pay one of the biggest fines in the history of the False Claims Act.

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Teleworking FAA begins its descent toward the in-office tarmac

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 11:32:19 -0000

(7/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Partnership for Public Service announces its 2023 People’s Choice Award winner. The electric vehicle commitment of federal agencies has just be supercharged. And the teleworkers at the Federal Aviation Administration, have just begun their descent toward the in-office tarmac.

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Air Force embeds recruiters in flyover country to find new cadets

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 11:09:37 -0000

(7/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Microsoft will soon give it away for the sake of cybersecurity. The Office of Personnel Management is drafting new qualification standards for federal wildland firefighter management jobs. And the Air Force embeds recruiters in the Hinterlands to find new cadets.

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Sen. Grassley puts a hold on Biden's Deputy VA pick

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 11:17:24 -0000

(7/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) puts a hold on President Biden's pick for VA deputy secretary. It looks like the Space Force will become the first military service with its own personnel system. And the TSA gears up to land new tech employees in top positions.

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USAID the latest agency to move toward less telework

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 11:59:38 -0000

(7/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: USAID has put a policy in place to limit telework. Congress moves to reduce employment barriers for military spouses, when a service member receives relocation orders. And the Intelligence Community gets new hiring incentives.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3,000 military reservists might be on their way to Europe

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:10:41 -0000

(7/17/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The General Services Administration is rethinking how it'll decide where to build a new FBI headquarters. Two decades of sexual harassment and assaults at the Coast Guard Academy have Congress calling for the inspector general. And 3,000 military reservists might be on their way to Europe.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kaine thinks he's able to kill Schedule F

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 11:43:46 -0000

(7/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) is taking another stab at killing Schedule F. There are some more return-to-office changes in the works for a couple of agencies. And President Joe Biden’s pick for second-in-command at the Department of Veterans Affairs is heading for a full Senate vote.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Federal firefighters' temporary pay raise goes permanent

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 12:23:30 -0000

(7/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Department of Homeland Security will see a change in a key leadership position. The law that governs federal cybersecurity is getting a bipartisan overhaul. And it looks like federal firefighters finally landed a permanent pay raise.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House GOP VA Committee members look to make firing of poor-performing employees easier

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:43:32 -0000

(7/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: House Republicans are looking to make it easier to fire employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Sen. Tommy Tuberville's abortion views lead to unfilled officer slots in the U.S. military. And the State Department looks to bring back retired diplomats.

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Both Virginia Senators call out DoD for foot-dragging reforms to privatized military housing

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 12:38:00 -0000

(7/11/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Virginia Senators Warner and Kaine send a detailed letter to the Defense Department decrying the lack of reforms to privatized military housing. GSA is turning up its protections to better mitigate supply chain risks. And Customs and Border Protection lays out its agency-wide IT plans.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former financial counselor faces federal charges for allegedly defrauding gold star family members

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:45:14 -0000

(7/10/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A former Army financial counselor faces federal charges for allegedly defrauding gold star family members. Joint Chief Chairman Mark Milley picks his next senior enlisted adviser. And lawmakers call for changes, after a letter carrier dies delivering mail in a recent heat wave.

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Two GOP lawmakers look to defund armed regulatory officers at certain federal agencies

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 12:29:17 -0000

(7/7/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Two GOP lawmakers are looking to defund armed regulatory officers at certain federal agencies. The Office of Personnel Management reminds agency managers they must not forget the "weather and safety leave" option. And it looks like your latest Zoom meeting is probably a public record.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CISA adds new faces to its top leadership team's cybersecurity division

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 11:35:00 -0000

(7/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: GSA is making it easier for agencies to find Native American companies to contract with, thanks to a new online tool. CISA adds new faces to its top leadership team's cybersecurity division. And a collaboration between U.S. Cyber Command and industry that helps defend against cyber attacks is expanding.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NTEU expresses concerns about telework, budgets, and DEI issues

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 11:15:22 -0000

(7/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A union for feds sounds the alarm about telework, budgets, and DEI issues. What does it mean that agencies improperly paid out more than $247 billion? And IRS looks to beta-test a free, online tax-filing platform.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DoD takes steps to combat foreign influence in federally-funded scientific research

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 11:16:25 -0000

(7/3/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department is taking steps to combat foreign influence in federally-funded scientific research. The time it takes to get a security clearance is holding steady. And a Florida-based small business and its owner will pay more than $7.7 million to settle allegations of False Claims Act violations.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senator hopes to speed up passport process before summer ends

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:59:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one Senator says he’s working on legislation that would give the State Department more ways to handle its backlog of passport applications.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Another attempt to lessen the effect prior marijuana use has on getting a security clearance

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 16:35:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers are again trying to change how marijuana use factors into a security clearance decision.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A gift for DHS employees with America's birthday right around the corner

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:04:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Department of Homeland Security employees get a nice surprise ahead of Independence Day.

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Workers at the Social Security Administration are sounding the alarm

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 14:36:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, employees at the Social Security Administration are warning that the agency's workforce challenges have become even more troubling.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House lawmakers continue to ask questions about GSA's Login.gov troubles

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:37:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration’s Login.gov service continues to be in the crosshairs of House lawmakers.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House Armed Services passes $874 billion defense authorization bill

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 04:56:14 -0000

(6/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The House Armed Services Committee sends an $874 billion defense bill to the House floor. The GAO says the military health care system still needs to complete Congressionally-mandated reforms. And the Senior Executives Association has a new president.

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Deleted texts get Homeland Security IG probed again

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 12:01:57 -0000

(6/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Military service members will soon get reimbursed for moving expenses for their pets. A bill advancing in Congress could mean $63 billion for DHS and 22,000 Border Patrol agents. And the Homeland Security IG is being probed again about his deleted text messages.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pentagon IG calls for full investigation into 21 missing shipping containers in Kuwait

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:07:07 -0000

(6/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Pentagon IG wants an investigation to find out what happened to 21 vanished shipping containers in Kuwait. The Deputy Secretary at Homeland Secretary is retiring and heading to Atlanta. And NASA and Microsoft joined forces with young people in a big DC STEM space, with an eye toward space.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Black sailors discharged for 'bad conduct,' receive official stamp of approval

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 11:53:56 -0000

(6/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Philadelphia 15, Black sailors from the 1940s, who received bad-conduct discharges, are now deemed as honorable. The Space Force looks to launch a National Guard into its orbit. And thousands of VA police officers will soon be wearing body cameras.

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Latest loser among Confederate leaders: Lt. Gen. Leonidas Polk

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:18:27 -0000

(6/16/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: HUD's customer experience leader is stepping down. A new 30-member team's been picked to focus on ways to improve the Army experience for women. And Lt. Gen. Leonidas Polk is the latest loser among Confederate leaders.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Huge pay raise in the works for America's military

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:37:22 -0000

(6/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS has its third new technology leader in four months. Reforms to the national security classification system were just passed by the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. And a hefty pay raise is in the works for American service members.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FEHB enrollees will soon be empowered to amass a bigger nest egg for health care expenses

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 13:39:10 -0000

(6/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Homeland Security IG's deleted texts continue to vex Democrats in congress. A GOP-controlled House committee votes to fully fund the President's $300B request for the Dept of Veterans Affairs. And FEHB enrollees will soon be empowered to amass a bigger nest egg for health care expenses.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

IRS needs more precision in doling out cash awards to whistleblowers, IG says

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:39:59 -0000

(6/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Senator Ron Wyden thinks spy agencies might be going too far to get data on Americans. The Treasury's IG says the IRS could improve on how it awards cash to whistleblowers. And Congress looks to eliminate the Pentagon’s office of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Suspension extended for horse-drawn caissons at Arlington National Cemetery

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 12:37:00 -0000

(6/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: OPM boosts awareness for those seeking and those running federal internship programs. HHS is close to finalizing an update to its data management strategy. And the 45-day suspension is extended for horse-drawn caissons at Arlington National Cemetery funerals.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Deleted texts newest reason given to DHS IG to immediately resign

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:29:11 -0000

(6/9/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Testifying to deleted texts is the latest reason Congressman Bennie Thompson is giving for the immediate resignation of Homeland Security's Inspector General. With military readiness impacted, GAO highlights DoD lowlights of weapons acquisitions programs taking too long and exceeding cost estimates. And contractors finally have a new timeline for the OASIS+ contract.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

House Democrats continue to spar with Homeland Security's inspector general

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:14:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers look to address what they say is troubling behavior by the Department of Homeland Security’s inspector general.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Security clearance holders, be on the lookout for latest phishing attempt

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 15:14:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is warning security clearance holders to watch out for a sophisticated phishing email.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ICE acting director announces his retirement

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 11:59:44 -0000

(6/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The acting director at Immigration and Customs Enforcement calls it a day. Congressman James Comer urges the President to nominate more permanent Inspectors General. And Air Force pilots can extend their military commitments and land a cool $50,000 bonus.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

TikTok banned again, this time for federal contractors

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:45:23 -0000

(6/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: TikTok has been banned again. (This time for federal-government contractors). Sen. Elizabeth Warren wants to play "20 questions" with DoD contractors over their pricing practices. And a new bill would strengthen a VA program that supports caregivers of veterans injured in the line of duty.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Astro Alert: Houston leads nation in dogs biting letter carriers

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 11:54:25 -0000

(6/2/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: It's a mixed-bag in May for the Thrift Savings Plan. President Biden picks an Air Force Lt. Gen. to lead the Defense Intelligence Agency. And Houston has the most-recent World Series champs and it also leads the nation in dogs, perhaps named Astro, biting letter carriers.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Biden nominates new Commandant of the Marines Corps

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 12:03:52 -0000

(6/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: President Biden has nominated a new Commandant of the Marines Corps. We have the latest "trust" numbers in a survey about federal employees. And the price of a stamp is going up...again.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Border Patrol Chief's 30-year career ends in 30 days

Wed, 31 May 2023 12:52:37 -0000

(5/31/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz prepares to end his 30-year career in 30 days. An Air Force disaster recovery response team is on its way to Guam. And the VA is pulling the mask off of certain mandates.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Typhoon turns Guam into Hotel California, with no check-out until July

Tue, 30 May 2023 11:51:07 -0000

(5/30/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Political campaigns prove to be a minefield for Hatch Act violators. Agencies have expanded their cyber defenses. And the Navy says the Guam typhoon means you can check out anytime you'd like, but you can never leave; at least not until July.

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Not quite a six-digit number of folks with seven-digit TSP accounts

Fri, 26 May 2023 11:19:00 -0000

(5/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: President Biden nominates a replacement for outgoing Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley. VA Nurses, numbering about 14,000, have reached an agreement with their union. And there's not quite a six-digit number of folks with seven-digit TSP accounts.

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GOP lawmakers target TSP's China and 'woke' investments

Thu, 25 May 2023 13:05:10 -0000

(5/25/23) - On today's Federal Newscast: Post COVID, FEHB carriers get approval to tweak their coverage. The Post Service is bleeding more money than expected and it's in the BILLIONS. And GOP lawmakers, seeing China red and ESG green, make a move to restrict certain TSP investments.

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Feds focus on TSP's future, as Uncle Sam steps toward financial cliff

Wed, 24 May 2023 12:45:00 -0000

(5/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Investors worry about TSP's future, if the government defaults on it debt obligations. Marines are spending more time in basic training. And the Thrift Savings Plan makes room for the new Office of Participant Experience.

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Data error exposes personnel info from several agencies to 22 HR employees

Tue, 23 May 2023 13:02:08 -0000

(5/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Disabled veterans will soon see a cost-of-living adjustment in their benefits. In January, a data error exposed the personnel info of employees from several agencies. And lawmakers want updates on the growing problem of stolen mail.

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Congressman wants a billion dollars more for frontline TSA employees

Mon, 22 May 2023 13:28:34 -0000

(5/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) wants to give an extra billion dollars to rank-and-file TSA workers. The Postal Service’s long-awaited dashboard, to track on-time mail delivery, is now live. And a Reston, Virginia-based company, with annual revenues of $7 billion, has a new CEO.

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One Senator thinks preserving a secret Parisian butchers’ language was a waste of American tax dollars

Fri, 19 May 2023 13:11:00 -0000

(5/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: One senator thinks preserving a secret Parisian butchers’ language was a waste of American tax dollars. Lawmakers want to know what the State Department is going to do about the huge backlog of passport requests. And the Navy redoubles its efforts on mental health.

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GSA accelerates toward electrifying federal fleet

Thu, 18 May 2023 11:40:00 -0000

(5/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Employees at DoJ urge Congress to oppose an abortion ban that would impact health benefits for feds. Colin Kahl will soon return to Stanford after helping steer the DoD policy ship and steering clear of Twitter. And GSA is increasing the RPMs toward electrifying the federal fleet.

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Senate GOP joins House GOP in calling for feds to SHOW UP for work

Wed, 17 May 2023 11:48:31 -0000

(5/17/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Senate Republicans join House Republicans in calling on federal workers to SHOW UP for work. A Transportation Department data breach puts more than 200,000 feds at risk of ID theft. And professors and Air Force Academy cadets look to have a robot defend bases.

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Federal correctional officers continue the fight for COVID-19 hazardous-duty pay

Tue, 16 May 2023 12:33:27 -0000

(5/16/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The White House is being pressured to name a new cyber executive. A couple have senators have drafted a bill to require federal-agency leadership to get up-to-speed on Artificial Intelligence. And federal correctional officers continue the fight for COVID-19 hazardous-duty pay.

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Fort Benning is no more; it's Moore

Mon, 15 May 2023 10:55:00 -0000

(5/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The members of the federal security cloud advisory committee have been made public. The Pandemic Relief Accountability Committee uncovers more dead people got paid COVID cash. And Fort Benning is no more. It's Moore.

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Horse problems force Arlington National Cemetery to suspend caisson use at funerals

Fri, 12 May 2023 11:55:00 -0000

(5/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Bad conditions for horses at Arlington National Cemetery lead to a suspension of certain ceremonial processions. Senators urge President Biden to nominate inspectors general at the State and Treasury Departments. And CIA names a new lead to head up its sexual assault prevention and response office.

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GOP resurrects the effort to make some feds at-will employees, thus easier to fire

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:53:08 -0000

(5/11/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Republicans have resurrected the effort to make some feds easier-to-fire at-will employees. DoD's acquisition chief blames Continuing Resolutions for ammunition shortages for Ukraine. And top Senate lawmakers make the case for a one-stop-shop for federal disaster aid.

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No COVID mandate for feds is Biden's newest COVID mandate

Wed, 10 May 2023 13:12:00 -0000

(5/10/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The newest Biden mandate, so to speak, is that there is no COVID mandate. The Confederacy suffers another defeat, as Fort Hood gets a name change. And another mega contract is facing delays because of protests.

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Chairman McCaul threatens to hold Secretary of State Blinken in contempt of Congress

Tue, 09 May 2023 12:01:13 -0000

(5/9/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee has a hankering to hold Secretary of State Blinken in contempt of Congress. Ground forces: check. But GAO says the readiness of U.S. sea forces has declined. And HUD employee attrition blamed on a dearth of telework opportunities.

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Agencies need to tailor job postings to attract younger workers, government experts say

Mon, 08 May 2023 12:04:35 -0000

(5/8/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The latest federal hiring strategy to get the interest of younger applicants. Military service members have a new avenue to seek mental health support. And all 27 Sammies finalists were unveiled today.

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More feds might soon be eligible for student-loan forgiveness

Fri, 05 May 2023 12:40:00 -0000

(5/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: More federal employees could see their student loans forgiven under a newly introduced bill. The Defense Department CIO says zero trust could have stopped the classified-document leaks by the Massachusetts Air National Guardsman. And an industry group suggests President Biden's proposed greenhouse-gas-reporting regulation, could leave contractors gasping for air.

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DoJ adds over two dozen corporate-crime prosecutors to its National Security Division

Thu, 04 May 2023 12:43:45 -0000

(5/4/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Justice Department's National Security Division expands big time, as it adds over two dozen new prosecutors to fight corporate crime. The backlog of Freedom of Information Act requests [across government] reaches new heights. And VA whistleblowers continue to increase their win-loss record.

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New electric mail trucks running late, by about eight months

Wed, 03 May 2023 12:00:00 -0000

(5/3/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: That new electric mail truck you've been waiting for is going to be about eight months late. As Army recruitment numbers continue to be down, the service is stepping up its sales classes for recruiters. And the 2024 CXO Fellows Program is taking applications.

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Targeting illegal immigration, new Senate bill addresses staffing shortages at airports, other ports of entry

Tue, 02 May 2023 11:56:48 -0000

(5/2/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Targeting illegal immigration, a new Senate bill addresses staffing shortages at airports and other ports of entry. A black Lt. Gen, who ran the Defense Intelligence agency, dies at 64. And President Biden makes COVID mandates a thing of the past.

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GAO gets new CIO next week

Mon, 01 May 2023 08:36:09 -0000

(5/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Newly introduced legislation would give FEHB participants more coverage for some assisted reproductive treatments. Two deadly helicopter crashes, lead the Army to hold an aviation-safety stand down. And GAO gets a new CIO next week.

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Retired Brigadier General sentenced to 12-month prison term

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:21:00 -0000

(4/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Wire fraud and filing a false tax return land a former Brigadier General in prison for a year. Two soldiers win a prize for inventing a solution for fixing mold issues in Army barracks. And agencies can now make 10-year appointments for STEM-related jobs.

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No-show job leads Army contracting officer to plead guilty to conspiracy and theft

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:58:00 -0000

(4/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A no-show job and 31 government-paid trips to Orlando, leave an Army contracting officer to plead guilty to conspiracy and 10 counts of theft. Senators Braun and Ernst revive a bill to withhold the salaries of feds who don't pay their taxes. And the Air Force unveils a new strategy to fill nearly 2,000 job openings for pilots.

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Senator urges Justice Dept to aggressively address epidemic of robberies against postal workers

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 11:15:18 -0000

(4/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: With robberies against postal workers at epidemic levels, Senate Majority Whip Dick Durban implores the Justice Department to aggressively prosecute. NASA continues to struggle attempting to keep up with diversity in federal workforce. And the Veterans Affairs Department sets its sights on finding permanent housing for 38,000 homeless veterans.

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Alleged transgression costs major government contractor $22M

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 12:18:00 -0000

(4/25/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A court awards some Oregon VA employees, added leave and back pay in a COVID-related case. An alleged transgression costs a major government contractor $22 million. And the Technology Modernization Fund Board hands out more millions.

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Speaker McCarthy's debt-limit proposal evokes AFGE backlash

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:10:00 -0000

(4/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's debt limit proposal evokes backlash from the largest federal employee union. The Department of Homeland Security announces new measures to address AI advances, as well as threats from China. And the VA warns that the debt-ceiling proposal by House Republicans would cut tens of thousands of jobs.

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USPS looks to further consolidate its delivery network

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 10:47:47 -0000

(4/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Postal Service’s regulator is reviewing the agency’s plans to consolidate its delivery network. The Secret Service has a new deputy director. And lawmakers are still trying to figure out what to about the troubled rollout of the VA's new Electronic Health Record.

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Recruiting struggles continue across the military

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 12:21:07 -0000

(4/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Other than strong Marine Corps numbers, recruiting struggles continue across the military. The Inspector General at the Energy Department says she needs more funding. And federal employees may soon see better access to child care services.

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OPM washes its hands of COVID-19

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 11:45:33 -0000

(4/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin directs DoD’s CIO to immediately issue new procedures on handling classified information. A Biden cabinet secretary gets called out for violating the Hatch Act. And OPM washes it hands of COVID-19, by removing it from its operating status.

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VA, NIH launch five-year study into Gulf War Illness

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 11:47:19 -0000

(4/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The VA and NIH are launching a five-year study into the chronic condition known as Gulf War Illness. The Defense Department has named a new director for its Civilian Protection Center of Excellence. And the final piece to modernize the TIC 3.0 requirements has arrived.

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New federal telework guidance elicits backlash from House Republicans

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:43:45 -0000

(4/17/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The President's new federal telework guidance elicits backlash from House Republicans. The Postal Service inspector general’s office and the IRS are teaming up to stop tax-refund fraud. And the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act requires agencies to provide more accommodations.

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False Claims Act brings Justice Department $3 million from software giant Adobe

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:52:59 -0000

(4/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The False Claims Act brings the Justice Department $3 million from software giant Adobe. The Government Publishing Office makes some high-tech moves to make passports more secure. And with a slight survey-score decrease, the National Science Foundation is still one of the "Best Places to Work."

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FAA conducting a pilot program that doesn't include human pilot

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:29:22 -0000

(4/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The FAA is conducting a pilot program that does not include a human pilot. The Defense Department wants to know what creates risk factors for military families. And a much-needed fix is coming to the SAM.gov platform.

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The FCC launches it Space Bureau

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 11:53:58 -0000

(4/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Lawmakers try to strengthen a law designed to stop illegal opioids from coming through the mail. OMB is close to finalizing new requirements for software security. And the FCC launches its Space Bureau.

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How the approaching debt-ceiling crisis could hit contractors first

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:40:47 -0000

If you see a robed figure on the corner with a sign reading, "The End is Near," take note. He could be talking to federal contractors. The longer the debt limit debate in Congress drags on, the more likely it will interrupt federal buying. To go deeper, Federal Drive host Tom Temin spoke with federal sales and marketing consultant Larry Allen.

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Admiral Steven Poulin: Vice Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:35:09 -0000

Lots of nation's impinge on the Arctic Circle. Even more try to use it strategically, like China. That's why, for years, the U.S. Coast Guard has been stepping up its patrols in the Arctic and why it convinced Congress to fund two new heavy ice-breaking ships. At the recent Sea Air Space conference, Federal Drive got an exclusive update from Coast Guard Vice Commandant, Admiral Steve Poulin.

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A recipe for resilience in the event of a damaging cyberattack

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:31:11 -0000

No cybersecurity measure is 100% reliable. That's why agencies need a dose of resilience -- the ability to get back to normal -- if a cyber attack were to succeed. For how to get more resilient, a group of smart thinkers got together in Washington. Federal Drive host Tom Temin spoke with one of them: Tony Scott, a former federal chief information officer.

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Fort Rucker sheds its Confederate moniker with a name change

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 11:21:17 -0000

(4/11/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Alabama's Fort Rucker sheds its Confederate moniker with a name change. USA Jobs is back online. And snail mail just got more expensive, again.

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House Republicans demand data from DOE about employees' possible stock-trading conflicts of interest

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 10:56:00 -0000

(4/10/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some House Republicans are demanding eight years of Energy Department data, about employees who might have violated conflict-of-interest rules. GAO says the Defense Department still needs to work on fixing its privatized military housing. And AFGE membership continues to grow.

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New analysis says some federal agency workforces have not fully recovered from previous administration

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:16:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, almost half of all CFO Act agencies have fewer employees today than in 2010.

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New avenue for federal agencies to link up with college grads

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 14:10:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one good government group has a new initiative trying to bridge the gap between agencies and federal job applicants.

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Senators want update from OPM on federal retirement improvements

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 14:30:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, bicameral lawmakers are urging the Office of Personnel Management to share its plan to reduce wait times for processing federal employees’ retirement claims.

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The IRS may want to revisit the idea of a suggestion box for employees

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 14:59:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an IRS watchdog says agency employees don’t have a proper channel to offer their feedback.

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Retiring intelligence officials are going to have to wait a few months before working for foreign governments

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 14:21:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, U.S. intelligence officers have new restrictions on working for foreign governments when they retire.

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Some TSA employees anticipate a 40% pay raise soon

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 12:37:00 -0000

(3/31/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Some transportation security officers could receive upwards of a 40% pay raise. The State Department looks to Mastercard for its latest deputy secretary. And the Department of Homeland Security is looking to harness artificial intelligence.

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House Democrats want to create another TSP investment option

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 11:23:00 -0000

(3/30/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Congressman Adam Schiff has introduced a bill to create another TSP investment option. GSA's Sonny Hashmi logs in to an oversight committee's hot seat. And Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) is troubled by a glitch-plagued app for migrants.

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After years of double billing DoD for genetic tests, LabCorp pays $2.1 million fine

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 11:56:00 -0000

(3/29/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: After eight years of double and triple billing DoD for genetic tests, LabCorp pays a $2.1 million settlement. An IRS watchdog says the agency's uncollected taxes estimate in not clear enough. And House Democrats want to create another investment option for TSP participants.

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Navy's former CIO drops anchor at Google Public Sector

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 12:23:00 -0000

(3/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy's former CIO docks his private-sector ship at Google Public Sector. A new Executive Order prevents agencies from using some commercial spyware. And federal employees in Shenandoah National Park have geography to thank for a pay increase.

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Bill reintroduced to establish IG office for agency that manages TSP

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 10:35:00 -0000

(3/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A bill is reintroduced to establish an IG office for the agency that manages the Thrift Savings Plan. The Postal Service surpasses more than $2 billion in loses so far this fiscal year. And the Biden administration is figuring out a way to bring some standardization to how agencies hire cyber workers.

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New House subcommittee chairman pledges to conduct rigorous oversight of CISA

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 10:28:00 -0000

(3/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A new House subcommittee chairman pledges to conduct rigorous oversight of CISA. All 44 Army installations institute the military housing Tenant Bill of Rights. And the White House is putting up $250 million to help make federal buildings more climate friendly.

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Lawmakers takes aim at changing how agencies buy software

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 11:21:00 -0000

(3/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Raising duplication issues, lawmakers takes aim at changing how agencies buy software. Firms that get CHIPS Act money might need to avoid expanding their operations to places like China and Russia. And senators are trying again to create a reserve force of civilian cyber workers.

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Policy change for certain diseases, boosts workers' comp acceptance rates for federal firefighters

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 12:28:00 -0000

(3/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A policy change dramatically boosts workers' comp acceptance rates for federal firefighters with heart problems and certain cancers. The Veterans Benefits Administration continues its hiring spree to handle a record workload. And HUD's Inspector General has her sights set on environmental justice.

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Virginia Army base gets an official name change this week

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 10:56:00 -0000

(3/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A southern Virginia Army base gets a name change on Friday. The IG says bad computer passwords are putting the FDIC at risk. And the National Security Agency hits an all-time high in hiring people with disabilities.

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OPM adjusts extension date to waive certain policies for essential federal workers

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 11:07:00 -0000

(3/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: OPM gives agencies an extension to waive certain leave policies for essential federal workers. The Defense Department has started a new working group to implement its suicide prevention policies. And comments on a new shared services framework are due this week.

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IRS watchdog wants more money budgeted for service, less for enforcement

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 11:15:00 -0000

(3/17/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS Taxpayer Advocate wants more money budgeted for service and IT modernization, and less for enforcement. The Biden Administration wants higher pay for federal firefighters. And the federal workforce is becoming slightly more diverse.

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Sen. Grassley puts hold on Biden's pick to oversee VA benefits

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:07:00 -0000

(3/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) puts a hold on President Biden's pick to oversee VA benefits. The U.S. Access Board's 25-member governing board has new leadership. And, tweets aside, confirmation of POTUS pick for Archivist of the United States, is one step closer.

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IG tells Veterans Health Administration to strengthen background checks to avoid hiring persons barred from employment

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:23:00 -0000

(3/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Veterans Affairs Department's Inspector General tells the Veterans Health Administration to strengthen background checks to avoid hiring disqualified people. The Navy wants a 4.5% budget increase next year, to $256 billion. And CISA is launching a new initiative to combat ransomware.

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NTEU President Tony Reardon retiring

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 11:51:00 -0000

(3/14/23)- In today's Federal Newscast: A union president, representing 150,000 federal workers, is hanging up the placards. The Army's first-ever civilian CIO has new private-sector gig, dealing with the public sector. And the Office of Personnel Management is processing retirement claims faster than a fax machine.

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DoD reports surge in sexual harassment at Naval and Air Force Academies

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:46:00 -0000

(3/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Sexual harassment is on the rise at the Naval and Air Force Academies. The Department of Veterans Affairs is looking to hire nearly a half million new employees. And 'double back pay' gets double the rejection by a federal appeals court.

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CISA looking at a budget bump in the millions

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 13:08:00 -0000

(3/10/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is looking at a budget bump in the millions. The Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) is in line for $200 million more in fiscal 2024. And the Agriculture Department (USDA) goes in search of a better potato to make better chips.

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DC Health Link data breach was a big one

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 12:53:00 -0000

(3/9/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The data breach at DC Health Link was a big one. SAM.gov also had problems, but GSA says it was not a cyber attack. And OPM is teaching federal job applicants the art of the interview.

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GAO promises to issue report on yearlong hiccups plaguing TSP's almost-fixed online system

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 13:24:00 -0000

(3/8/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: GAO promises more details about TSP's new website. Lawmakers look to ban agency use of Biometric Technology. And the Army's new advertising slogan is an old one.

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Census Bureau, it turns out, didn't spend as much as once thought

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 12:03:00 -0000

(3/7/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Census Bureau didn't spend as much as once thought. Another bridge across the valley of death is being built for small-business contractors. And agencies are making progress on the President's Management Agenda.

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Nation's drinking-water systems need better cyber hygiene, EPA says

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:41:00 -0000

(3/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The EPA thinks the nation's drinking-water systems need better cyber hygiene. The Senate now has a companion bill that would repeal provisions that limit some feds' Social Security benefits. And the GSA is cleaning out its acquisition closet.

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Reports of federal race, sex and age discrimination are on the decline

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 12:54:00 -0000

(3/3/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Reports from government employees of race, sex and age discrimination are on the decline. New legislation would create tax benefits for businesses that hire military spouses. And the Air Force liberalizes its tattoo policy.

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USPS billions of dollars in the hole

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 11:56:00 -0000

(3/2/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Post Office has lost more than $2 billion this fiscal year. A new bill could bring changes to federal firefighters' retirement savings. And Homeland Security celebrates its 20th anniversary.

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DoD official talks mental health at Georgetown

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 13:43:38 -0000

(3/1/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks talks about a mental-health priority. The financial systems modernization at Homeland Security comes under GAO scrutiny. And the IRS is looking for volunteers to advise the agency.

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No dance step or sidestep can help avoid the TikTok ban

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 12:38:28 -0000

(2/28/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: There's no dance step or sidestep to help avoid the TikTok ban. The Director of CISA calls for changes in how tech companies design their products. And legacy data centers are dropping like flies and saving billions of dollars.

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The CIO shuffle continues at two agencies

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 11:39:00 -0000

(2/27/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Akin to the '85 Chicago Bears, the CIO shuffle continues at two agencies. AFGE rejects calls to cut the DoD civilian workforce. And CISA revamps its website and adds a big red button.

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Sen. Markey calls for 'glitchy asylum app' to be shut down at the border

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 12:34:32 -0000

(2/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A Massachusetts senator calls for a glitchy asylum app to be shut down at the border. The GAO reports that the VA is failing to follow protocol when hiring drug felons. And a video-game-like simulator helps train Latin American military personnel at a Texas Air Force base.

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House bill gaining steam to restore full Social Security benefits to certain feds

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 13:04:57 -0000

(2/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A House bill is gaining steam to restore full Social Security benefits to certain feds. The focus intensifies on an estimated $65 billion in bogus unemployment insurance payments during the pandemic. And one congressman is probing a no-bid contract at DHS.

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Federal contracting industry provides support for Ukraine

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 12:58:00 -0000

(2/22/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The federal contracting industry provides big-time support for Ukraine. TSP's obsolete forms could pose a problem. And DoD warns against the dangers of poppy-seed bagels.

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Defense Department officials took risks when authorizing commercial cloud services, DoD IG says

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 12:00:07 -0000

(2/21/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Did DoD officials take risks when authorizing commercial cloud services? OPM is offering Federal HR specialists a free web-training opportunity. And the Commerce Department has a new leader for advancing equity.

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State Dept. gets serious about cybersecurity

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 13:20:00 -0000

(2/17/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Justice and Commerce Departments join forces to target cyber crime. The backlog of retirement claims at OPM ballooned last month. The State Department gets serious about cybersecurity. And there's a new portal on USAJobs.gov for prospective interns.

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Postal Service moves to crack down on 'a surge in counterfeit postage'

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 13:52:22 -0000

(2/16/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Postal Service is moving to crack down on 'a surge in counterfeit postage.' The Office of Management and Budget is looking to update the federal grant-making process. And the White House takes steps to defend federal-agency data from the power of future quantum technology.

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NIH $50 billion IT-services contract being buried under protests

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 13:11:00 -0000

(2/15/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The $50 billion IT-services contract from NIH is being buried under protests, yet again. The Air National Guard is providing humanitarian aid to earthquake victims in Turkey. And DoD announces the first successful test flights of F-16s flown with artificial intelligence.

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Top Virginia lawmakers join forces to make final non-partisan pitch for new FBI HQ in their state

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 13:05:39 -0000

(2/14/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Powerful Virginia lawmakers, of all stripes, are making a final pitch to land the new FBI HQ in their state. Some GOP Congressmen are asking FEMA's top manager about COVID-related decisions. And OPM has selected finalists for the Presidential Management Fellows Program.

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TSA’s use of facial recognition comes under congressional scrutiny

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 12:50:00 -0000

(2/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Transportation Security Administration’s use of facial recognition comes under congressional scrutiny. The Government Printing Office moves to adopt 19 suggestions to make federal information easier to access digitally. And the Pentagon releases a report on the quality of life for military families.

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Growing disagreement between OMB and GAO is no act

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 12:31:41 -0000

(2/10/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department IG warns against unauthorized apps on government phones. A growing disagreement between OMB and GAO is no act. And the National Cyber Director is retiring next week.

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GAO preparing first-of-its-kind estimate of total fraud across all federal programs

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 13:26:00 -0000

(2/9/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: GAO is preparing a first-of-its-kind estimate of the total amount of fraud across all federal programs. DoD health care providers expand their use of electronic health records. And GAO says FEMA needs stronger oversight of public-private partnerships.

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Agencies slow to act on some critical cybersecurity recommendations

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 12:59:40 -0000

(2/8/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Agencies are dragging their feet on some critical cybersecurity recommendations. GSA is expanding its data reporting initiative. And MREs of the future could be made from nothing more than water, air and energy.

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Momentum continues toward modernizing Congress

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 12:24:15 -0000

(2/7/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The momentum continues toward modernizing Congress. President Biden names a Microsoft executive to chair a key cybersecurity advisory committee. And the new website, AirForce.com, has landed for all potential recruits.

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Child care for DoD employees is falling short, GAO says

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:57:00 -0000

(2/6/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Child care for DoD employees is good, but costs too much and is in short supply. A new bill could change how COLAs are calculated for federal retirees. And if you're violating certain federal civil statutes or regulations, get ready to pay higher penalties.

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MSPB says federal hiring officials should focus more on skills rather than education

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 16:07:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Merit Systems Protection Board encourages federal hiring managers to focus more on job candidates' skills, rather than their education.

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Navy wants local help figuring out what to do with a now closed facility

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Hawaiian company will help the Navy find community-based solutions to reuse the Red Hill fuel storage facility on Oahu.

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A new way to measure the government's supply chain security readiness

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 15:55:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast the Federal Acquisition Security Council is developing a scorecard to help assess governmentwide supply chain security readiness.

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PRAC: Potentially over $5 billion in fraudulent pandemic loans from SBA

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 15:23:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a pandemic watchdog flags billions of dollars in potential fraud from programs offered by the Small Business Administration.

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State Department employees suffering from mysterious condition now have an avenue for financial help

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 09:32:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the State Department outlines how employees suffering from so-called Havana Syndrome can qualify for compensation.

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Looking for a job? Now could be a good time to start your intelligence career

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:45:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Security Agency is embarking one of its largest hiring sprees of the last three decades.

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Concerned with potential damage to national security, two Senators request review of consulting firms' dual US-China relationships

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 12:15:33 -0000

(1/26/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Concerned with potential damage to national security, two Senators have requested a review of consulting firms' dual US-China relationships. The January 11 flight-delay fiasco, leads the House to pass a bill requiring the FAA to fix the problem. And TSP millionaires have made a slight comeback.

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DoD wants to declassify more intelligence to enhance private-sector cybersecurity

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 12:14:24 -0000

(1/25/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department wants to declassify more intelligence to enhance private-sector cybersecurity. GSA is taking new steps to make sure the software it uses is secure. And Janet Yellen says not to fret over your retirement money. It'll be there.

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OPM draws wrath of House Oversight and Accountability Committee

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 07:30:00 -0000

(1/24/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The OPM has drawn the wrath of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee. The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency fires back at a lawsuit over a software contract. And after waiting almost a year for confirmation, Brendan Owens lands a new Assistant Secretary of Defense job.

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GAO sounds the alarm on federal cybersecurity efforts

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 11:38:50 -0000

(1/23/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The GAO is once again sounding the alarm on federal cybersecurity efforts. The Veterans Affairs Department is weeks away from taking its next step to modernize its supply chain systems. And OPM is hiring a chief learning officer.

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Treasury Department temporarily suspends investments in the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 11:26:49 -0000

(1/20/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Treasury Department is temporarily suspending investments in the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund. Federal contracting officers have new training and certification requirements. And the State Department is launching a new program to resettle refugees in the U.S.

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GAO audits another big federal program with big fraud potential

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 12:14:32 -0000

(1/19/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: GAO audits another big federal program with big fraud potential. The Defense Department has a new plan to manage its satellite communications. And lawmakers reintroduce legislation to equalize Social Security benefits for federal retirees.

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Court fight continues over government-shutdown double back pay

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 12:56:00 -0000

(1/18/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The court fight continues over government-shutdown double back pay. A New York congressman is urging CISA to examine air traffic control vulnerabilities. And the State Department will pay $37 million in a class-action lawsuit involving some 230 disability discrimination cases.

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IG slams NASA's software asset management, calling it 'basic'

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 13:07:00 -0000

(1/17/23) In today's Federal Newscast: The Inspector General criticizes NASA's software asset management, calling it 'basic.' Some Coasties are treading water, trying to find affordable housing. And CISA looks to speed up hiring.

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Soldier sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for $3 million PPP loan fraud

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 12:20:00 -0000

(1/13/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A soldier has been sentenced to 42 months in prison for $3 million in PPP loan fraud. New recommendations are out on how to collect sexual orientation and gender-identity data. And the clock is ticking on your chance to donate to the Combined Federal Campaign.

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Grassley calls for 10 agencies to account for payment arrangements of temporarily employed non-feds

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 12:39:55 -0000

(1/12/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: A powerful senator wants to know how some agencies are paying non-federal temp employees. The Navy Secretary expresses concern about maintenance backlogs at four shipyards weakening combat readiness. And where's Robin? Congressman Comer thinks GSA's Carnahan is working way, way outside the beltway.

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Another agency discovers the benefits of other transaction authority

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 15:36:16 -0000

The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dalhgren Division, like other defense units, seeks to bring new industrial capabilities quickly to benefit the mission. Now it has entered into a new other-transaction-agreement, or OTA, to do just that. OTAs in the right circumstances let agencies speed up acquisitions, often non-competitive ones. For details, Federal Drive host Tom Temin spoke with the Dalhgren Division's Head Contracting Officer, Melisha McAuliffe and with VP of the Sea, Space and Air Division at ATI, Chad Bryant.

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GOP House members named chairmen of Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:53:12 -0000

(1/11/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: House Republicans continue to enjoy their majority, naming two more members to committee chairmanships. Defense Secretary Austin officially ends the military's COVID-19 vaccine mandate. And AFGE continues to grow new members.

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GOP chairmen selected on House Ways and Means and Homeland Security Committees

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 13:09:15 -0000

(1/10/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Republicans have started selecting chairmen for their House committees. OPM offers agencies a first look at new HR standards to help improve the delivery of services. And the 2023 Presidential Rank Awards are open for business.

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Bad computer-password practices could lead to a phishing-attack crisis

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 11:39:30 -0000

(1/9/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: Bad computer password practices could lead to phishing attacks at the Interior Department. 2022 Unclassified Defense Department procurement spending nearly hits an all-time high. And the penalty for unethical feds could hit over $70,000.

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DoD reveals name-change recommendations for nine Army bases

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 20:06:00 -0000

DoD reveals the name-change recommendations for nine Army bases. AFGE says inmate sex incidents are creating stress-induced illnesses for federal prison guards. And private debt collectors hired by the IRS get mixed reviews.

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Indictments, convictions and millions recovered, as DHS OIG tackles COVID-19 fraud

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 12:28:48 -0000

(1/5/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: COVID fraud leads to indictments, convictions and millions recovered, thanks to the efforts of the DHS OIG. Leaders at OPM search for better ways to support their hybrid workforce. And DoD wants to know what it costs to wear a uniform.

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Biden renominates Gigi Sohn to FCC, 14 months after failed first confirmation effort

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 12:57:55 -0000

(1/4/23) - In today's Federal Newscast: The President tries again, 14 months later, to get Gigi Sohn on the FCC. Awash in scandal, Congress calls for more oversight of privatized military housing. And Senators Carper and Collins insist Postmaster General DeJoy formulate a new recruiting and retention plan, as delivery delays persist.

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Military academy superstar athletes no longer can turn pro upon graduation

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 12:53:34 -0000

Military academy superstar athletes can no longer turn pro immediately after graduation. OPM reminds agencies that there are rules about putting political appointees into civil service jobs.And the State Department gets aggressive searching for its next generation of IT workers.

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Congress wants DoD's telework policies set in stone

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 16:35:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, emphasizing the availability of telework for federal jobs may lead to better recruitment and retention.

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NIST is out with new methods for agencies to handle data privacy concerns

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 14:33:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Institute of Standards and Technology has new guidance for federal agencies that need to reduce privacy risks in giant sets of data.

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Legislation order Bureau of Prisons to upgrade its security hardware

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 13:44:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Bureau of Prisons will have to overhaul its outdated security systems under legislation the president signed yesterday.

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NARA signs new telework agreement with AFGE

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 15:15:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new telework agreement for one agency gives its employees more flexibility

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DHS IG finds Homeland Security not too secure about revoking credentials from former employees

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 13:32:24 -0000

(12/12/22) - In today's Federal Newscast - The DHS Inspector General finds Homeland Security not too secure about revoking former employees' credentials. A new bill calls for NOAA to breakaway from the Commerce Department. And after a two-year wait, federal guidance on the ethical use of AI is MIA.

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CBP's $17 billion budget means a bigger focus on the border

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 13:31:10 -0000

(12/22/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A $17 billion dollar budget for CBP means a bigger border focus. The Merit Systems Protection Board releases a report on sexual harassment at federal agencies. And feedback is needed on how federal employees pay their union dues.

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OPM has its first deputy director in two years

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 13:40:33 -0000

(12/21/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Office of Personnel Management has its first deputy director in two years. Information on CIA's new Open Source Enterprise director, can be found in open sources. And OPM data breach victims need to act fast to get their $700.

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GOP Senators urge defense secretary to reinstate military members and issue backpay for vaccine-related discharges

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 13:09:20 -0000

(12/20/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Republican Senators urge Defense Secretary Austin to reinstate military members and to issue backpay for vaccine-related discharges. The personal information of more than 250,000 people possibly exposed in data breach. And L3Harris Technologies is buying Aerojet Rocketdyne for almost $5 billion.

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Senate continues its crusade against duplicative federal programs

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:40:03 -0000

(12/19/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Senate continues its battle against wasteful duplication in federal programs. Over the past two years, the wage gap for federal agencies does not improve for women. And the Air Force makes progress accommodating civilian employees with disabilities.

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Senate unanimously passes bill that would ban TikTok on government devices

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 11:44:45 -0000

(12/16/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Senate has unanimously agreed that TikTok should be banned. The percentage of women serving in the military keeps going up. And the Federal Protective Service is facing staffing shortages.

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Lawmakers want retired military officers held accountable for jobs with shady foreign clients

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 13:24:44 -0000

(12/15/22) In today's Federal Newscast: With the cost of living up, so is the military's Basic Allowance for Housing. Lawmakers want retired military officers held accountable for jobs with shady foreign clients. And the Defense Intelligence Agency embraces artificial intelligence.

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The chances of a government shutdown, just about slammed shut

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:35:54 -0000

(12/14/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The chances that congress will shut down the government look slim...maybe. Space Force guardians sharpened their skills tracking Artemis between the Earth and the moon. And the State Department is planning to create a new bureau to address future infectious disease outbreaks and pandemics.

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DoD IG issues critical report on behavior of former director of the White House Military Office

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 12:34:45 -0000

(12/13/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department Inspector General issues a critical report on the behavior of the former director of the White House Military Office. A 17th Sergeant Major of the Army has been selected. And DCSA awards two contracts worth more than $2 billion each.

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OPM prepares to gather telework information from all agencies

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:37:12 -0000

(12/12/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: OPM prepares to gather telework information from all federal agencies. DoJ and HHS strengthen their partnership to put more heat on fraudsters. And a senior official leading workforce issues at the State Department is stepping down.

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NDAA will give direct financial help to servicemembers in need

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 14:51:30 -0000

(12/9/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Defense Authorization Act will give direct financial help to servicemembers in need. The Department of Homeland security gets some suggestions on how to improve customer service. And another bill is on the way to vanquish government jargon.

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NDAA will give direct financial help to servicemembers in need

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 12:13:05 -0000

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IBM's shopping spree lands a Reston firm, as it gobbles up its 25th company since 2020

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 13:15:24 -0000

(12/8/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: IBM's shopping spree lands a Reston firm, as it gobbles up its 25th company since 2020. DoD's chief financial officer wants an actual budget to pass, not a CR. And the Veterans Affairs Department continues to struggle to comply with a litany of laws.

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House and Senate Armed Services Committee leaders reached an agreement on NDAA

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:47:50 -0000

(12/7/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: House and Senate Armed Services Committee leaders have reached an agreement on the National Defense Authorization Act. U.S. scientists turn into diplomats (of sorts) on foreign soil. And the Social Security Administration unveils its new website.

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House Republicans urge EEOC bring employees fully back to the office

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 13:23:50 -0000

(12/6/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Republicans in the House call on the EEOC to fully bring back federal employees to the office. A new study finds that reaching out to certain TSP participants, boosts the money they invest. And GSA's Technology Transformation Service has a new leader.

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'The Evil Twins' are on the House calendar for the first time,for a possible first-ever vote

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 13:23:36 -0000

(12/5/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Evil Twins are on the House calendar for the first time for a possible first-ever vote. With a $10 billion ceiling, a solicitation is out for one of the most anticipated IT services contracts of the year. And a 2022 IRS watchdog investigation leads to 26 firings and much more.

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Federal Energy Regulatory Commission gets high marks for its cybersecurity program

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 13:27:50 -0000

(12/2/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission gets high marks for its cybersecurity program. Watchdogs say mistakes and fraud led to telehealth overbilling during the pandemic. And DoD wants to know if the kids are doing all right.

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President's Management Agenda sets training and supplier diversity goals

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 13:33:18 -0000

(12/1/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The President's Management Agenda sets agency goals for training and supplier diversity, among others. Seventy House lawmakers push for billions of dollars for the Social Security Administration. And the Senate confirms a new Defense Department IG.

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A banner year for GSA IT contracts

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:41:08 -0000

(11/30/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: We have the numbers on a banner year for GSA IT contracts. The Space Force orbits into its first overseas combatant command. And the VA's shift away from paper checks, snuffs out fraud.

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Certain military laboratories can now pay a top annual salary of $226,000

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 12:37:25 -0000

(11/29/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The military’s Science and Technology Reinvention Laboratories can now pay you $226,000 per year. The National Science Foundation experiments with more working from home. And the cost of sending junk mail is going up.

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Social Security Administration asks for billions of more dollars to do its job

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:32:49 -0000

(11/28/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Social Security Administration says it needs billions more to deliver for Americans. The federal government saw an overall drop in improper payments in fiscal 2022. And federal employees still have time to make changes to their health care enrollments.

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Two former VA employees plead guilty to embezzling nearly $3 million from the agency

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:56:20 -0000

(11/23/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Two former VA employees are likely headed to federal prison for their $3 million scheme. A lead cyber agency is on the hunt for a key piece of technology. And OPM will temporarily halt applications for the Federal Long-Term-Care Insurance Program.

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Congressmen want to know what agencies are doing to ensure clean water across America

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 12:24:12 -0000

(11/22/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Two congressmen want to know what agencies are doing to ensure clean water across America. DOJ wants agencies to provide more information in different lanugages. And the House Modernization Committee looks at the need to have a congressional Chief Data Officer.

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Small businesses get some inflation relief from the SBA

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:21:55 -0000

(11/21/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Small businesses get some inflation relief from the SBA. Federal first responders, with on-the-job injuries, may soon get better retirement benefits. And federal prosecutors have filed charges following a gun battle that killed a CBP officer.

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A bill designed to standardize federal-election mail-in ballots is headed to the House floor.

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 13:22:38 -0000

(11/18/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A bill meant to standardize mail-in ballots for federal elections is heading to the House floor. A long-running dispute between employees and the Education Department has reached a settlement. And USPS has gifted itself some new sorting machines, just in time for the holidays.

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The year-old $3 billion infrastructure law is actually leading to stuff being fixed

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:16:55 -0000

(11/17/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is actually leading to stuff being fixed. The Defense Logistics Agency gets a step closer to hitting the spot with G-Invoicing. And the GSA looks to Arkansas for nuclear and renewable energy sources for federal agencies.

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OPM urged to disallow salary-history consideration in federal recruitment and pay determination

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 12:45:43 -0000

(11/16/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: OPM is urged to disallow salary history in both the hiring and pay-setting processes. The VA is taking corrective action after disclosing the vaccination status of more than half a million employees. And the Secret Service gets some new cybersecurity advice.

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Pentagon continues to face challenges responding to cyber attacks on military networks

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 12:52:30 -0000

(11/15/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Pentagon continues to face challenges in responding to cyber-attacks on military networks. Agencies may get some help with training for human resources specialists. And the Defense Department still can't meet its goals for keeping its planes "mission ready."

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The Air Force and Space Force offer a day off for servicemembers to get the bivalent booster shot

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 12:14:20 -0000

(11/14/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Air Force and Space Force are offering a day off for servicemembers to get the latest shot. Three agencies are teaming up to help veterans better understand their protections against employment discrimination. And the Biden administration is taking steps to require major federal contractors to reduce air pollution.

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GAO: New TSA screening technology is discriminating at airports

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 12:33:07 -0000

(11/10/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: It looks like the TSA has a screening machine that discriminates. The hiring surge at the Internal Revenue Service continues. And the Defense Department has a new chief of defense industrial base cybersecurity.

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Boasting a 91% success rate, the IRS rakes in $31 billion from tax cheats

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 12:55:15 -0000

(11/9/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Boasting a 91% success rate, the IRS rakes in $31 billion dollars from tax cheats. A new director has been named at the NIH to run what's called, "NCATS." And a House committee moves to help VA employees concerned about the mishmash of state abortion laws.

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Number of TSP millionaires continues to drop

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 12:42:33 -0000

(11/8/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The world continues to have fewer TSP millionaires. AFGE continues to grow. And VA healthcare embraces the possibly toxic today.

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GAO warns Coast Guard that it's too slow creating rules to improve safety aboard older commercial fishing vessels

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:12:01 -0000

(11/7/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: GAO warns the Coast Guard that it's way behind improving safety aboard older commercial fishing vessels. EV-driving DoD employees will have an easier time charging their vehicles in 2023. And veteran homelessness dropped 11% in 2022, according to the VA.

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Federal HR employees get guidance on data use in recruitment efforts

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 11:13:47 -0000

(11/4/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Federal human resources employees get some guidance on how to effectively use data in recruitment. The leading federal cyber agencies enumerate coding-security advice for software vendors. And the FCC is launching a Space Bureau.

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Space Force has a new leader

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 10:35:18 -0000

(11/3/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Take me to your leader; the Space Force has a new one. A union for federal employees suggests some agencies might be sort of suppressing the vote. And DoD's Zero Trust strategy will soon go public.

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GAO calls on FEMA to help more people in need of rebuilding their homes

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 10:04:48 -0000

(11/2/22) In today's Federal Newscast: The GAO calls on FEMA to help more people in need of rebuilding their homes. The percentage of contract protests drops by double digits. And the Thrift Savings Plan was up in October.

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National Archives digitizes hundreds of millions of pages for public access

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 10:03:11 -0000

(11/1/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The National Archives continues its effort digitizing hundreds of millions of pages for the public. The VA improves its information on job vacancies. And the AbilityOne program scores a cool two million from the Technology Modernization Fund.

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New data shows feds' pay is lagging even more behind private sector counterparts

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:44:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees are seeing a growing gap in salary compared with the private sector.

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Looks like when the phone rings next tax season, someone will be there to answer

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 13:47:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the IRS just might have someone to answer your call next tax season.

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More ways for feds with student loan debt to get a break from payments

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 13:58:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees with student debt may soon see some expanded opportunities for loan forgiveness.

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DOD's JEDI cloud contract may have had some unresolved issues

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:34:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, just when you thought you had heard the last of DoD's controversial JEDI cloud contract, there's another twist.

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The Office of Personnel Management is hoping to attract more early career (young) workers into government

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 15:35:27 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, OPM plans a slew of initiatives to attract more early-career people to federal service.

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IG: Climate change to add to Treasury Department's workload as well

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 15:28:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, you can add the treasury department to the list of agencies whose workload may significantly increase due to climate change.

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Customs and Border Protection pledges to hire more women by 2030

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 10:12:56 -0000

(10/21/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Customs and Border Protection pledges to boost hiring-of-women to 30% by 2030. The Census Bureau count of cyber attacks against the Census Bureau, numbers in the trillions. And FEMA's efforts to combat workplace discrimination and harassment not quite firing on all cylinders.

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Better policies needed for treatment of government dogs, GAO says

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:59:06 -0000

(10/20/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: GAO said better policies are needed for the treatment of some 5,000 government dogs. OMB is expected to soon issue guidance on a recent ruling on the COVID-19 vaccine. And TSA rolls out a new machine, at small airports, to get you through the security line faster.

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Billions richer, IRS leader remains confident amid huge backlog and employee wrongdoing

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 10:32:43 -0000

(10/19/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The GAO has some advice for the Army to make sure it shoots straight. With some 14 million tax returns needing attention and $80 billion richer, the IRS is confident it can do the job. And the TSA is taking new steps to ensure America's railways are not susceptible to cyber attacks.

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Air Force needs to throttle up to fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities, DoD IG says

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 11:34:56 -0000

(10/18/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: DoD IG says the Air Force needs to throttle up to fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The Postal Service is confident it can deliver the goods this election season. And are feds being hung out to dry when it comes to weather and safety leave?

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Biden Administration suggests possible return to vaccine mandates for federal contractors

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 10:22:39 -0000

(10/17/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Biden administration is signaling it’s at least possible that the vaccine mandate for federal contractors is coming back. The Defense Department needs about 20 experts it's willing to pay $340,000 per year. And a union blames campaign ads for increased threats against the IRS.

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Air Force experiments with pot leniency in recruitment

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:56:20 -0000

(10/14/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Infrastructure plans move forward, as the federal government hires thousands of Americans. The Social Security Administration could lose thousands of employees to retirement in the near future. And the high-flying Air Force experiments with pot leniency in recruitment.

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Social Security makes progress in reducing payments to dead people

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 10:30:33 -0000

(10/13/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Social Security is hopeful it will reduce payments to dead people. Technical updates to the website for IG reports, expected to produce even more government transparency. And AT&T public sector has a new leader.

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U.S. Army cements plans for an integrated zero trust program

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 11:21:48 -0000

(10/12/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Army is creating a new integrated program office to bring all of its zero trust pursuits under one roof. GAO tells GSA it has got a real problem selling real estate efficiently. And Senate inaction causes a top OMB vacancy to remain unfilled, going on five years.

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Biden Administration expands use of procurement to encourage economically friendly purchasing

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 23:24:36 -0000

(10/11/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Biden Administration expands the use of procurement to encourage economically friendly purchasing. American embassies worldwide are in line for a major network upgrade. And the Department of Homeland Security looks to improve customer experience with people and data.

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The Army and West Point creating a climate change curriculum to focus on national security implications

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 11:14:05 -0000

(10/7/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Army and West Point are creating a climate change curriculum to focus on national security implications. OPM plays the role of booster in encouraging federal employees to their latest COVID shots. And if you're a tax cheat living abroad, the IRS just might find you.

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The Space Development Agency lands upon a new, permanent home

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 11:27:24 -0000

(10/6/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Space Development Agency has landed upon a new, permanent home. It looks like GSA will be keep contractors busy this winter. And the IG community honors its best.

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Lawmakers push for a waiver extension of student loan debt relief for government employees

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:39:32 -0000

(10/5/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Lawmakers are pushing to extend a program deadline for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. A lawsuit about racially biased performance evaluations at NASA moves forward. And a handful of IRS employees are charged with defrauding two pandemic-relief programs.

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A $28 billion SBA pandemic relief program for restaurants served up some sloppy oversight and possible fraud, GAO says

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 10:48:18 -0000

(10-4-22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A $28 billion SBA pandemic relief program for restaurants looks to have served up some fraud and sloppy oversight. House Republicans are not too keen on giving the IRS billions of dollars to catch more tax cheats. And the Air Force is seeking candidates for a $5 billion cyber services contract.

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DoD Inspector General finds major flaws in the reporting of insider threats

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 09:59:24 -0000

(10/3/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Defense Department Inspector General finds major flaws in the reporting of insider threats. More than 12% of federal employees surveyed, wanted to quit their jobs last year. And efforts to improve the air filtration in government buildings continue to fall short.

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Nearly $3 million in possible COVID fraud tied to DHS employees

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 10:38:25 -0000

(9/30/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Nearly $3 million in possible COVID fraud is tied to DHS employees. A government shutdown is off the table, probably. And one of the longest serving agency CIOs is retiring.

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Hundreds of reclassified workers would have been easier to fire under Schedule F, GAO reports

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 11:06:29 -0000

(9/29/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Government Accountability Office lifts the veil to show hundreds of feds were being prepped for easier firing under Schedule F. The nominee to be the National Archivist encounters a political speed bump. And the Labor Department is finding a way out of its technical debt.

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Senators move to ban sex offenders from National Veterans Cemeteries

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 10:46:57 -0000

(9/29/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: It looks like a government shutdown at midnight on Friday has been avoided. Lots of changes planned if the National Cemeteries Preservation and Protection Act is passed. And dissatisfaction and exhaustion rise for employees at the Social Security Administration.

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U.S. Navy moves ships and aircraft out of the path of Hurricane Ian

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 10:30:55 -0000

(9/27/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The U.S. Navy moves ships and aircraft out of the path of Hurricane Ian. New ideas emerge to make oversight of federal IT more impactful. And auditors find gaps in the cybersecurity practices across the nation’s nuclear labs and production sites.

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The IG community is taking a closer look at it's own work force

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 14:00:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a working group in the inspector general community is looking for ways to better integrate diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the IG workforce.

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Agriculture Department plants more seeds to grow its diversity and inclusion efforts

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:57:06 -0000

(9/23/22) -- In today's Federal Newscast: USDA sprinkles some fertilizer on its growing efforts at diversity. An immigrant woman of color, who once ran DARPA and NIST, takes over the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. And DoD thinks of new ways to help soldiers fight inflation.

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State Department looking to pay college students who speak fluent computer

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:50:23 -0000

(9/22/22) - In today's Federal Newscast -- Special delivery: Louis DeJoy brings joy to postal managers with a 3% pay raise. There appears to be no end in sight trying to attract qualified Americans to join the military. And another BLM office votes to join the union.

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Found guilty, a former HUD inspector general faces up to 80 years in prison for corruption

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 10:37:53 -0000

(9/21/22) - In today's Federal Newscast - A former HUD inspector general is found guilty of corruption and now faces up to 80 years in prison. DoD is offering two online courses on suicide. Major changes are afoot for SBA's 8(a) program. And AFGE presents its wish list for the 2023 defense authorization bill.

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The 'Oscars' of federal service will be handed out tonight in D.C.

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 10:23:42 -0000

(9/20/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: What some call "the Oscars" for federal public service will be given out tonight in the nation's capital.The Air Force is reversing a plan that would have cut pay for some servicemembers. And the Homeland Security Department is repurposing some electric vehicles to add to its 50,000-vehicle fleet.

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Could artificial intelligence lead to genuine hiring bias?

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 10:23:08 -0000

(9/19/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Government officials think artificial intelligence could lead to a real bias in hiring. The Post Office plan to transport more mail through railroad contractors is off the rails.And a Midwest senator wants to turn up the heat on federal agencies...literally.

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A BRIGHT idea that would save the government millions of dollars on lightbulbs and electricity

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 10:03:45 -0000

(9/16/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A BRIGHT idea by lawmakers could save millions of taxpayer dollars. The Biden administration takes steps to loosen COVID-19 restrictions. And the IRS moves toward establishing the Federal Contractor Tax Check System.

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Pentagon removes almost all of its COVID-related workplace restrictions

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 10:57:02 -0000

(9/15/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: If you work inside the Pentagon, you'll experience almost no workplace COVID-related restrictions. A new crop of White House Fellows prepares to start work in the federal government. And there are concerns about a software supply chain provision in the NDAA.

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The State Department moves to extricate itself from its pale, male and Yale image

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 10:46:41 -0000

(9/14/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Department of State moves aggressively to shake its image as pale, male and Yale. The American Federation of Government Employees continues to grow. And CISA lays out a grand vision for its future .

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Government child care facilities fail the post-COVID drinking water test

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:35:42 -0000

(9/13/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Most GSA childcare facilities did not test their drinking water, which was likely contaminated, after returning from the COVID shutdown. Bipartisan lawmakers are looking to limit the ability of some feds to trade individual stocks. And the Biden administration fills two brand-new positions to government

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The Interior Department removes an ethnic slur from valleys, streams and rivers

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 13:39:04 -0000

The US Marshal s Service is offering a hefty reward for information leading to the arrest of Fat Leonard. GSA will focus more on climate and sustainability considerations in federal acquisition. And the Interior Department's search for a new CIO is over.

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The Interior Department removes ethic slur from the names of valleys, streams and rivers

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 13:18:54 -0000

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The Interior Department removes ethic slur from the names of valleys, streams and rivers

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 13:18:54 -0000

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The Interior Department removes the word "squaw" and other ethnic slurs from valleys, streams and rivers

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 10:43:18 -0000

(9/12/22) In today's Federal Newscast: The U.S.Marshals Service is offering a hefty reward for information leading to the arrest of Fat Leonard. GSA will focus more on climate and sustainability considerations in federal acquisition. And the Interior Department's search for a new CIO is over.

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Arrested and discharged soldier joined Army to learn how to kill black people, prosecutors say

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 10:23:31 -0000

(9/9/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A discharged Ft. Bragg soldier, active on social media, is under arrest for alleged extremist activity. If you have social skills, the Department of Homeland Security might want to hire you. And senators say the easing of the military's soldiers-with-HIV policy should go further.

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Bill Shackelford prepares to take the helm at NARFE in January

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 10:24:22 -0000

(9/8/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Inflation-weary defense contractors get a break from firm, fixed-price contracts. The GAO issues a report that concludes that the defense department can do a better job of utilizing commercial satellites. And the Army wants to modify and accelerate the selection process for new commanders.

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The board that manages the TSP to be officially scrutinized

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 10:33:00 -0000

(9/7/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board is going under the microscope. The Ag and Interior secretaries are urged to immediately hire more federal firefighters. And new tactical bras for female soldiers are on the drawing board.

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Union organizers now allowed on GSA-owned property to interact with contractors

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 10:59:29 -0000

(9/6/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Union organizers are now allowed on GSA-owned property to chat up private contractors. The vaccine mandate for federal employees is being challenged by lawmakers. And a two-year-old $340 million IT contract is under scrutiny.

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New report spells out plan for federal agencies to work together in the next pandemic

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:24:45 -0000

(9/2/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A new, in-depth report spells out a plan for federal agencies to work together to fight the next pandemic. Beware, it’s insider-threat awareness month. And a new Army survey finds dissatisfaction with military housing.

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Zombie programs that won't die lurch toward half a trillion dollars

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 10:42:48 -0000

((/1/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Biden team has made a few more tweaks to its COVID-19 guidance for feds. Zombie programs that just won't die lurch glassy-eyed toward half a trillion dollars. And the Navy is looking for a few good gamers.

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The Office of the National Cyber Director names 17 new appointments

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 11:11:51 -0000

(8/31/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Office of the National Cyber Director announces 17 new appointments this week. The Defense Department makes a major update to its Mentor-Protégé program. And CACI wins a long-awaited contract worth billions of dollars.

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Service members and their families have a new vaccine option

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:30:27 -0000

(8/30/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Service members and their families have a new option when it comes to COVID-19 vaccinations. The clock is ticking on the Small Business Innovation Research program. And no test for you...as the free gifts to your mailbox come to an end.

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SBA reinvigorates its women-owned small business contracting initiative

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 10:49:54 -0000

(8/29/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: An appeals court decision might mean a return to the COVID vaccine mandates for federal contractors. The SBA reinvigorates its women-owned small business contracting initiative. And Ft. Bragg's moldy barracks seem to be nothing to brag about.

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Pentagon officials say a hotter world means the U.S. military needs to adjust

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 10:45:17 -0000

(8/26/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Pentagon says the military needs to change in this increasingly hotter world. The Biden administration takes action to make sure public research results should be public. And the Air Force is partnering with NASA for experiments aboard the International Space Station.

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Education Dept. gearing up for President Biden's student loan cancellation plans

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 13:38:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Education Dept. is trying to work quickly to set up a simple application process to help borrowers claim debt relief.

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The VA begins a new focus on network cyber controls

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 10:32:08 -0000

(8/24/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The VA begins a new focus on network cyber controls. Does telework help or hurt diversity efforts? And was the Coast-Guard-connected couple in Hawaii in the spying business? Trial begins in a month.

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The Postal Service is delivered a cybersecurity report card with mixed grades

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 10:18:18 -0000

(8/23/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Postal Service has accepted delivery of a mixed-grades cybersecurity report card. HUD and its employees are just not seeing eye-to-eye on returning to the office. And the military just made it easier for soldiers to get a vaccine for Monkeypox.

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The Marine Corps hits its retention goals for the first time in a decade

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 10:06:23 -0000

(8/22/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Forget about "The Great Resignation." The Marine Corps just hit its retention goals for the first time in a decade. Reimbursements for military housing are not keeping up with inflation. And the Federal Charity Campaign needs more leaders.

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Congressman Connolly demands to know if the DHS IG is under investigation

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 10:41:58 -0000

(8/19/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A Virginia congressman demands to know if the Homeland Security Inspector General is under investigation. NASA lays out its plan for a major IT services contract recompete. And the IRS is looking to expand its use of video conferences in appeals cases.

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Yellen memo calls for IRS modernization to help ID tax-evasion schemes perpetrated by top earners

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 10:56:50 -0000

(8/18/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: Treasury Secretary Janet Yellin wants to catch a higher number of rich tax cheats. The GAO recommends the military services clear up their tattoo policies. And the Colin Powell Leadership Program is offering paid fellowships and internships.

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IRS could have trouble spending billions of new taxpayer dollars on new employees

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 10:14:44 -0000

(8/17/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: President Biden makes it official by signing the Inflation Reduction Act. The IRS is having trouble spending its taxpayer dollars. And congress goes after sexual misconduct in Junior ROTC programs.

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Sen. Rubio hammers continued TSP investment in China

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 10:59:02 -0000

(8/16/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A Florida senator has some harsh words for the TSP and its China ties. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is criticized for its lack of transparency. And the Pentagon releases its first-ever social-media policy for official accounts

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As Navy recruiters tread water, a few $100,000 life preservers land with a splash

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 09:55:57 -0000

(8/15/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: A murdered soldiers family files a $35 million lawsuit. GSA is offering some new help to agencies to improve cybersecurity. And the Department of Homeland Security is looking for a few good hackers.

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IG says 'inconsistent' Pentagon policy on active shooters could make things worse

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:09:13 -0000

(8/12/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IG warns an inconsistent DoD policy on active shooters could be deadly. The union for letter carriers contends USPS is way understaffed. And the Navy and the state of Hawaii join forces to clean-up the military's mess in Paradise.

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The Air Force will no longer shoot down Facebook foes

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 10:44:18 -0000

(8/11/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: If you want to troll the Air Force Facebook page...no problem. The U.S. Forest Service and Defense Logistics Agency are teaming up to fight fires. And President Biden appoints the first woman to head up the National Cancer Institute.

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Pentagon loosens some of its COVID-19 restrictions

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 12:54:45 -0000

(8/10/22) - The Pentagon's COVID-19 policy is evolving. Agencies get marching orders for how to prioritize their 2024 budget requests. And the Postal Service expects to raise mail prices in January. AND this update: This morning, President Biden sign the so-called BURN PITS bill to support veterans.

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Millionaire status is fleeting for thousands of TSP participants

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 10:05:01 -0000

(8/9/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The economy batters another group: former TSP millionaires. The Marine Mammal Commission has its ethics called into question. And GAO is concerned the Navy is trying to impede Congressional oversight.

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New locality-pay adjustments will impact thousands of federal workers

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 10:49:45 -0000

(8/8/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The IRS is about to get additional billions in its budget for added enforcement. Some feds in the West and Pacific Northwest expect some locality pay to be in their future. And a new report finds that federal employees’ salaries are often much lower than their private-sector peers.

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SBA names its third CIO in two years

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 11:24:32 -0000

(8/5/22) In today's Federal Newscast: The Federal Labor Relations Authority has issued a complaint against EEOC over office-reentry policies. The Capitol riot has got the Pentagon rethinking its rules on saving data on mobile devices. And the Air Force is embracing privacy during pregnancy.

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Former Trump aide in trouble for not turning over government emails on his private account

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 10:44:32 -0000

(8/4/22) In today's Federal Newscast: The Biden Administration Office of Personnel Management gets its first second-in-command. Former White House trade-policy director Peter Navarro's in trouble for doing government business on his private email. And the Navy has a new top intelligence officer.

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GSA's Chief Information Officer is on a hiring spree

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 10:22:16 -0000

(8/3/22) - In today's Federal Newscast: The Chief Information Officer at GSA is seemingly in unrestrained hiring mode. Meanwhile, federal employees under 30 are resigning at higher rates than the overall average. And a new bill takes on the hired-at-will controversy.

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Postal workers reminded they cannot profit from speeches, articles or books about official duties

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 11:05:30 -0000

On today's Federal Newscast: It looks like DoD might be under reporting what it's spending on cloud services. CISA can expect a huge budget increase next year. And postal workers are reminded to rein in the rainmaking for personal gain.

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DOJ indicts three alleged scammers for posing as federal employees and bilking victims out of $7.5 million

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:30:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: More than 50 victims handed over millions of dollars to scammers posing as Feds. A new bill would try to make it easier to fire federal employees. And DoD health officials are building a one-stop-shop website offering abortion information.

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House lawmakers urge POTUS to require large vendors to disclose PAC spending, after a federal contract is awarded

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 11:46:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: House Progressives want large government contractors to quickly disclose their PAC donations. A new FBI building just got a half billion dollars closer to reality. And the next chief of space operations at the Space Force has been selected.

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Inflation expected to hit government contractors hard, Pentagon Comptroller says

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 10:55:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: No surprise. Inflation is hitting the contracting community along with everyone else. GAO reports that DoD has shoddy tactics for testing children for lead exposure. And the Customs and Border Protection directorate hits facial recognition technology right between the eyes .

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Agriculture Department IT workers vote to join a union

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:55:27 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: Some 800 IT workers at the Agriculture Department vote to join a union. In Hawaii, a Coast Guard couple might be Russians, with fake identities. And federal agencies achieve historic levels of success with small business contracting.

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D.C. Delegate asks GAO to look into TSP's bug-riddled website

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 10:39:41 -0000

Two Members of Congress ask GAO to figure out what has gone wrong with the TSP's members-only website. There's news of a $12-million-dollar class-action settlement at DEA, some three-decades in the making. And NASA’s Goddard Center has a job opening, at the top.

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White House budget request highlights its cybersecurity priorities

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 10:26:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: A losing bidder for the DoD multibillion moving contract will submit additional evidence in its lawsuit. Disabled workers for federal contracting jobs will now get, at least, the federal minimum wage.And Senate lawmakers want agencies to begin preparing for a quantum leap in computing.

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OPM's top official identifies telework dearth as major cause of ship jumping

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:33:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: The OPM Director has a warning about not offering telework to federal employees. The House passes a bill to fund IRS customer service. And the Coast Guard is modifying its medical requirements.

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The Agriculture Department plants the equity seed

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 17:10:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: The National Institute of Standards and Technology is updating cybersecurity standards. A U.S. Fish and Wildlife employee gets caught lying about PPP loans. And the Army struggles further to meet its recruitment goals.

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Dog bites appear quaint, as robberies triple for postal workers

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 10:39:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: With attacks on postal workers increasing, congress steps in. Congress also moves to get injured federal first responders their retirement benefits. And get ready for travel advisories about being taken hostage abroad.

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Dr. Anthony Fauci catches the retirement virus

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 10:31:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: Some federal agencies just found out they overlooked nearly a half billion dollars in uncollected debts. Dr. Anthony Fauci admits he's caught the retirement virus. And CISA hangs up a shingle in London.

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The IC gets a new data czar

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:40:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: The Intelligence Community gets a new Chief Data Officer. The U.S. Army is offering thousands of dollars in signing bonuses...per recruit. And a new legal opinion about the Technology Modernization Fund sheds light on payback options.

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Forest workers want a little help finding their roots from their agency

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 14:15:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Forest Service workers press for better living conditions.

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IRS managers try to explain how Comey and McCabe could've ended up on audit list

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 14:01:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, IRS career managers respond to allegations of politically-motivated tax audits of former FBI director James Comey and deputy director Andrew McCabe.

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Agency leaders trying to get along better with federal employee unions

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 16:39:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, some agency leaders are taking a closer look at improving cooperation with unions.

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High gas prices plaguing consumers...and the Pentagon

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 13:08:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is moving nearly $1 billion of its funds to cover rising fuel costs.

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The Army is adjusting its tattoo policies, in the hopes of attracting more recruits

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 13:59:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army has relaxed their policies on tattoos in an effort to recruit more people.

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Social Security plans to expand workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 11:40:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: The Navy is making it less intimidating to report sexual assault. The director of the Secret Service is retiring. And staffing shortages are again plaquing the Veterans Affairs Department.

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How the State Department helped Afghans escaping the Taliban end up safely in the U.S

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 15:01:48 -0000

When the Taliban overran Afghanistan following the American pullout, tens of thousands of Afghans who had helped American forces had to flee. They came here. My next guests responded to a sudden need for transportation, housing and other aid. Their State Department team are finalists in this year's Service to America Medals program. Two of them joined me now in studio. We have the director of State's refugee processing center, Hilary Ingraham. And the domestic resettlement chief, Holly Herrera. The third award recipient is program officer Kiera Berdinner.

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Some members of Congress urge the FDA to use its influence to limit animal testing

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 15:00:28 -0000

Members of Congress continue their interest in seeing the curtailment of animal testing for drugs and cosmetics. Now some members are urging the Food and Drug Administration to develop guidance for industry on how to avoid animal testing for products requiring FDA approval. Here with more, Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-Nev.).

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The government's main mental health agency takes on social media

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:59:14 -0000

Evidence has mounted in the last year about the effects of social media on mental health. Now the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, part of Health and Human Services, has established a center of excellence on social media and mental wellness. Joining us once again, with what the center will do, SAMHSA administrator, Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon.

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Congresswoman Norton hints at House hearing on TSP challenges

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:57:39 -0000

Issues with the Thrift Savings Plan member access system have persisted for more than a month now. Long wait times and dropped calls at the TSP's customer service center, lack of access to historical documents, beneficiary designations and financial information. All problems with the new My Account Platform. The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board launched the system June 1st. Now, many of the problems are getting more attention on Capitol Hill. Federal News Network's Drew Friedman spoke with DC Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), about why the TSP issues have been a recent priority for her.

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How the Pentagon has reacted to the overturning of Roe v Wade

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:54:59 -0000

With the Supreme Court recently striking down Roe v Wade, military service members may need to think about abortion in different ways. The Defense Department is promising to protect abortion, but that still leaves some pregnant service members in the lurch. Federal News Network’s Scott Maucione has more.

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How the Pentagon has reacted to the overturning of Roe v Wade

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:54:59 -0000

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Biden admin. wants more federal employees to qualify for student loan forgiveness

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 13:33:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new proposal from the Department of Education is aiming to expand student loan relief programs for federal workers.

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Federal Court of Appeals looks to handle question of monetary damages for feds who worked for free during shutdown

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 11:04:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federal appeals court is hearing arguments today over whether federal employees who worked without pay during government shutdowns are owed extra money.

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Pentagon looking to gauge the health of the Defense industrial base

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 14:25:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon wants input from industry as part of a new study on the financial health of the Defense industrial base.

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Navy enacting new measures to improve recruitment

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 14:03:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Navy is taking measures to keep more sailors in uniform as it continues to have issues with recruitment.

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More funding for DHS' consolidated headquarters on the docket

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 13:59:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the fiscal 2023 spending bills making their way through the House would give more money to the DHS St. Elizabeth's West Campus.

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More funding for DHS' consolidated headquarters on the docket

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 13:59:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the fiscal 2023 spending bills making their way through the House would give more money to the DHS St. Elizabeth's West Campus.

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Just how secure are federal buildings?

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 13:11:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new inspector general report shows federal building alarm systems and security cameras are falling short of expectations.

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USDA now accepting donations for Feds Feed Families campaign

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 14:33:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Agriculture kicked off the annual Feds Feed Families campaign Monday to tackle food and nutrition insecurity across the country.

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DOJ preparing guidance for agencies who provide reproductive care after Dobbs v. Jackson decision

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 12:48:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department is looking to help agencies resolve any questions about their authority in providing reproductive care.

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Senator wants former and possibly current marijuana use to not count against clearance-seekers

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 14:00:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new legislation would make it easier for security clearance applicants to overcome a history of using marijuana.

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New GSA contract will make sure some federal buildings are always buzzing

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 13:44:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the federal government’s landlord is getting a new tenant, bees!

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A tale of two agencies trying to implement a new electronic health record

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 13:46:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department is delaying the launch of its EHR in certain areas, while the Defense Department's is moving right along.

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New IG report shows why the Pentagon can sometimes have buyer's remorse

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 13:45:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department wasted an estimated $5 million in a single year by buying items it already had in its inventory.

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The size of the next federal pay raise is up in the air

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 13:42:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: A federal pay raise appears to be on the horizon, but remains up in the air. Inflation might mean more money for the DoD and nuclear maintenance . And an $11 billion contract award survives a protest.

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Coast Guard cyber expert says ransomware attack on federal agency is more than likely

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 14:30:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Coast Guard's Cyber Red and Blue Team Branch chief says that a ransomware attack is probably coming to a federal agency soon.

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U.S. Marshals Service may need some help managing all that seized crypto

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:52:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. Marshals Service has its work cut out managing cryptocurrencies seized by the Justice Department.

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While the White House doesn't like the idea of a Space National Guard, one particular interest group does

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 14:30:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration doesn’t think a Space National Guard is the best idea. Now some interest groups are pushing back.

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40 members of the U.S. Digital Corps headed to 13 agencies to improve digital services

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 10:42:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: the Biden administration outlines its plan to maximize COVID-era IT modernization funds. A study shows the brain injury CTE is rare in military personnel. And the VA is trying to streamline how contractors interact with the department.

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Federal workers who get injured on the job may soon have more treatment options

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 13:45:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill passes the House giving federal workers who get injured on the job better access to workers' compensation.

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Federal lawsuit over 2015 OPM breach seems all but wrapped up

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 14:15:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, news on a potential multimillion dollar settlement for victims of the Office of Personnel Management hack.

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DC area Congressman want to make federal telework a permanent option

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 13:31:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Democratic House lawmakers want to expand federal employee telework for the long-haul.

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The Air Force wants to show its airmen how to fuel up...themselves that is

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 13:56:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force now has its own cooking show.

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Government events may soon look a little like before COVID-19

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 15:15:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Safer Federal Workforce Committee issues a slew of updates to the governmentwide policy for dealing with Covid-19.

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White House to initiate paid internship program for the first time ever this fall

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 13:55:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, this fall, the White House will have paid internships for the first time ever.

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The first female U.S. military service chief is sworn in

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 13:13:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, it’s official: the U.S. military has its first-ever female service chief.

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New lawsuit filed on behalf of Air Force members with religious objections to COVID vaccine mandate

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 13:30:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federal lawsuit has been filed against the Defense Department on behalf of members of the Air Force seeking religious exemptions to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

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Energy Department takes the title owning the fastest computer in the world

Tue, 31 May 2022 13:08:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Energy Department's Oak Ridge National Lab is home to the world's fastest supercomputer.

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BLM workers elect to join federal employee union

Fri, 27 May 2022 13:51:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, employees at the Bureau of Land Management's headquarters vote to receive union coverage.

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Two agencies point the finger when it comes to keeping track of tech spending

Thu, 26 May 2022 14:15:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, GAO, OMB butt heads over cost estimating for projects winning extra funding for IT modernization.

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Man faces decade in prison for threatening some prominent federal employees

Wed, 25 May 2022 13:16:27 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a West Virginia man is facing punishment, including up to 10 years in jail, for making multiple threats against federal officials.

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New data shows federal workers with disabilities are having a tougher time getting management positions

Tue, 24 May 2022 13:00:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission finds opportunities for federal workers with disabilities are improving, but more work can be done.

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New data shows federal workers with disabilities are having a tougher time getting management positions

Tue, 24 May 2022 13:00:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission finds opportunities for federal workers with disabilities are improving, but more work can be done.

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New report says the Pentagon is not paying enough attention to its civilian workforce

Mon, 23 May 2022 14:54:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an influential DoD advisory group says the Defense Department needs to pay a lot more management attention to its civilian workforce.

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House Republicans look to get feds back to the office

Fri, 20 May 2022 14:00:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, some Republican lawmakers want to press pause on making remote work permanent.

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National Guard members get the go ahead to unionize if and when they're called up by the governor

Thu, 19 May 2022 13:22:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, National Guard members on state duty can now unionize, thanks to a new Justice Department agreement.

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Agencies may need to change to adapt to post-COVID workplaces

Wed, 18 May 2022 14:18:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the director of the Office of Management and Budget wants agencies to look at the future of work.

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An idea to change how cost of living adjustments are calculated for federal retirees is introduced in Congress

Tue, 17 May 2022 13:28:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House lawmakers want to change how cost-of-living adjustments, or COLAs, are calculated for many federal retirees.

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Postal Service agrees to provide more transparency during election season

Mon, 16 May 2022 14:27:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service settles another lawsuit stemming from the 2020 presidential election.

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New numbers from the IRS' watchdog truly show less workers, means less tax dollars

Fri, 13 May 2022 12:55:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the IRS saw the amount of money collected through enforcement mechanism drop significantly in fiscal 2020.

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EEOC and federal employee union are locked in dispute over return to work plans

Thu, 12 May 2022 14:12:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the American Federation of Government Employees has filed an unfair labor practice complaint, saying that EEOC did not finish union negotiations before announcing its re-entry plans.

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Agencies get new workforce priorities to focus on for the next few years

Wed, 11 May 2022 13:39:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management released a new federal workforce plan.

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Some members of the Interior Dept. will have an opportunity for remote work

Tue, 10 May 2022 13:32:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, some Interior Department employees will see their remote work options expand.

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House of Representatives set to raise minimum salary for staffers

Mon, 09 May 2022 13:40:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House of Representatives is trying to recruit more diverse and high-quality candidates, and get them to stay there.

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Two agencies are teaming up in the name of environmental justice

Fri, 06 May 2022 13:46:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department and the Environmental Protection Agency are teaming up to launch a new environmental justice strategy.

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With the weakening dollar, the Pentagon may need to refill the coffers sooner than expected

Thu, 05 May 2022 13:48:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department says it may need more money in 2023 to offset inflation.

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Pentagon enters what many hope will be the final round against cancer

Wed, 04 May 2022 13:24:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is working with other agencies to defeat cancer.

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Pentagon feeling those high gas prices as well

Tue, 03 May 2022 14:01:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, rising oil prices tend to raise the cost of just about everything – including running a military.

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Vets suing Army for not recognizing substance abuse disorders in discharges

Mon, 02 May 2022 15:00:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, veterans are suing the Army for refusing to give soldiers with alcohol and drug addictions honorable discharges.

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Members of Congress hoping to secure higher pay raise for federal employees next year

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:37:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Members of Congress are pushing for a higher pay raise than the White House asked for in 2023.

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Homeland Security's bug bounty pilot went so well, the agency is looking to expand upon it

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 13:45:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, DHS is ready to expand its cyber bug bounty program after a successful pilot.

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Biden administration trying to find happy medium when it comes to facial recognition

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 13:16:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Can the government safely and equitably use facial recognition for identity proofing? That's the question the General Services Administration's Technology Transformation Service is asking.

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OPM wants to help formerly incarcerated with finding work in the federal government

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 13:26:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management is giving formerly incarcerated individuals an opportunity to join the federal workforce.

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Current and former members of the military can squeeze in on some military flights again

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 14:00:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force’s Air Mobility Command will allow those with special privileges to tag along on military flights if there is room.

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EPA changing on-boarding process due to pandemic's effect on the workplace

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 10:18:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Environmental Protection Agency is revising its onboarding process to reflect the pandemic's effects on the workplace.

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GAO: HHS needs to find ways to shield its scientists from political strong-arming

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:54:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new study from the Government Accountability Office finds the Health and Human Services Department needs to take steps to protect career scientists from political interference.

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Members of Congress want State Dept. to go to bat for LGBTQ diplomats

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 13:52:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top Democrats on the House Foreign Affairs Committee are calling on the State Department to expand opportunities for LGBTQ diplomats.

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Federal employees can now send portion of their pay to help Ukrainian refugees

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:09:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management is giving all federal workers the option to contribute to humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

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Agencies and companies now have a how to guide on reporting cybersecurity incidents

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 14:18:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, there’s a new guide for how to report cyber incidents from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

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Federal agencies have their plans for increasing equity in government services

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:30:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more than 90 federal agencies announce new plans to improve equity in government services.

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Questions arise from Air Force's decision to move Space Force headquarters to Alabama

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 14:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, concerns about the movement of U.S. Space Command headquarters are mounting.

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USCIS looks to streamline the process for those applying for DACA status

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 12:48:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services expands online filing to those with DACA status.

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OPM hopes new hiring resource hub will make it easier to recruit cyber experts

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 12:37:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management wants to make it easier to recruit cyber experts for federal jobs.

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Small Business Administration wants to show off new technologies made possible through its funding programs

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 14:05:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Small Business Administration is looking to showcase entrepreneurs developing technology in key industries in part through federal funding.

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Federal employees will get the first crack at the State Department's online passport renewal process

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 12:44:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the State Department invites federal employees to renew their passports online ahead of public launch.

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Agency in charge of legislative workers hopes to keep things rolling

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 13:27:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, to continue enhancing worker protections in the legislative branch, the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights is requesting a flat budget for fiscal 2023.

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Coast Guard may soon have the first woman in uniform to lead a military branch

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:55:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden taps Admiral Linda Fagan as the next commandant of the Coast Guard.

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Biden admin. worries effects from climate change will take a toll of federal budgets for years to come

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 13:41:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration expects climate change’s toll on the federal government will become more expensive over time.

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Three members of U.S. Army are charged in alleged gun running scheme

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 13:47:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department has charged three Army servicemembers for allegedly having a key role in a criminal network that supplied guns to gang members in Chicago.

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Biden admin. hoping to make government services more inclusive for transgender people

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:25:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House wants to boost inclusion for transgender people in federal services.

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Another court rules in favor of Navy sailors who do not want COVID-19 vaccine

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 12:47:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federal judge in Texas has blocked the Navy from enforcing its COVID vaccine mandate against nearly 4,000 sailors who’d filed religious exemptions.

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SBA dropping thousands of temporary employees hired as part of COVID response

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 13:36:26 -0000

The Small Business Administration is planning to shed the equivalent of more than 3,400 full-time employees as part of its budget request for fiscal 2023.

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Senators want to eliminate any conflicts of interest with government contractors

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 14:14:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bi-partisan group of Senators are taking aim at organizational conflicts of interest among federal contractors.

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With rising inflation, OPM to examine some employees current pay rate

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 13:31:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, some federal workers may be getting a pay raise due to rising levels of inflation.

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Federal employees can now take paid leave to vote and work at the polls

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 11:02:49 -0000

Federal agency CIOs are finalizing plans to create and fund a zero-trust architecture. A former head of the TSA has died. And you can now sport ombre nails while in a Marine Corps uniform.

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40 lawmakers call for 5% increase in defense budget

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 10:39:16 -0000

Lawmakers call for a more money in the defense budget. An effort is underway to reform and modernize the State Department. And pregnant Marines get a break on clothing.

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GSA tries to whip inflation now for contractors

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 11:57:47 -0000

The General Services Administration attempts some creative inflation-slashing-tricks for contractors. Internet crime was a growth industry in 2021. And the number of federal contractors is shrinking.

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Members of Congress want regular updates from the FAA on any issues that arise from 5G growth

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 13:49:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House lawmakers are pressing the Federal Aviation Administration for more details on what it's doing to ensure the safety of the air transportation system as commercial companies roll out 5G wireless services.

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Maryland legislators ask for an investigation into potential discrimination within its National Guard

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:27:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers want the National Guard Inspector General to investigate bias in the Maryland National Guard.

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OPM hopes to make it easier for women to join Senior Executive Service

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 13:37:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new program offers opportunities for more women to join the Senior Executive Service.

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GAO: State Dept. didn't always communicate with other agencies about its evacuation plans during pandemic

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 13:58:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the State Department didn’t communicate key elements of its global evacuation policy to the 26 agencies whose employees work in embassies and consulates overseas.

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Biden admin. wants to get women closer in pay parity with men

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 13:27:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two initiatives seek to prohibit use of a people's prior salaries when hiring them

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Major DoD IT contract award unsurprisingly faces bid protest

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 13:21:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Defense is facing a protest of its $11 billion IT contract award.

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USPS could face some difficulty in buying the gas-powered fleet it wants

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 13:38:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats seek to block the Postal Service from buying mostly gas-powered vehicles as part of its next generation fleet.

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Air Force looking to give more career flexibility to new parents

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 15:20:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, airmen who are in dual military relationships will now have more time to decide if they want to stay in the service after having a child.

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Navy's vaccine mandate is front and center in court case today

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 15:56:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federal court in Florida will hear arguments today on a vaccine mandate case that the Navy says has effectively put one of its guided missile destroyers out of commission.

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VA's biggest union already pushing back on agency's closure plans

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 15:40:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department's largest employees union is raising hackles over a plan to trim back VA facilities.

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USPS also finds itself in need of more truck drivers

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 14:14:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a national shortage of truck drivers hits home for the Postal Service.

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More coordination is needed for housing afghan refugees on military bases

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:58:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense and State departments have been working together for months to evacuate and house Afghan refugees on U.S. military bases, but still don’t have any written agreements formalizing those arrangements.

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Exposed to COVID-19 on the job? A new website lets you join class-action lawsuit for hazard pay

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 13:22:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees who were exposed to COVID-19 while working can now join a class-action lawsuit.

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Senate passes resolution blocking Biden admin's vaccine mandate for health care workers

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 15:34:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate takes a shot at the Biden administration’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers.

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Biden lays out how administration plans to go after COVID fraudsters

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 15:27:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Biden says an executive order is in the works that will help agencies prevent and detect identity theft linked to COVID-19 relief programs.

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New COVID guidance for federal agencies to match CDC recommendations

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 15:46:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force has new guidance for masking and COVID testing for federal agencies.

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Certain agencies miss getting a clean audit bill of health for differing reasons

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 15:56:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the departments of Defense and Labor and the Small Business Administration stopped the federal government from fully understanding the state of their finances.

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President Biden picks agency to lead federal efforts during Russia-Ukraine crisis

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 15:38:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Biden designated the Department of Homeland Security as the lead agency for the federal response to the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

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Members of Congress press AG Garland to get agencies to comply with FOIA laws

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 16:01:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers are pressing Attorney General Merrick Garland to hold agencies accountable for following open records laws.

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Members of Congress press AG Garland to get agencies to comply with FOIA laws

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 16:01:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers are pressing Attorney General Merrick Garland to hold agencies accountable for following open records laws.

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GOP Senator has idea to completely change the makeup of federal workforce

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:06:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Senate Republican seeks to shake up the federal workforce, as part of his vision for his party's agenda.

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Unions want VA to educate employees on pandemic resources

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 15:03:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, five unions say VA should immediately develop a joint COVID-19 training task force to design education courses for employees.

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House Dems think GSA should break lease with Trump Org. after accounting flaws revealed

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 15:46:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top Democrats on the House Oversight and Reform Committee are calling on the General Services Administration to terminate its lease for the Trump Hotel in downtown D.C.

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House Dems think GSA should break lease with Trump Org. after accounting flaws revealed

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 15:46:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top Democrats on the House Oversight and Reform Committee are calling on the General Services Administration to terminate its lease for the Trump Hotel in downtown D.C.

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CISA: Russian hackers have infiltrated defense contractors' unclassified networks

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 15:43:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal agencies say over the past two years, Russian state-sponsored hackers have systematically infiltrated the unclassified networks of cleared defense contractors.

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Calling all zero trust experts, ICE is looking for your help

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 15:40:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Immigration and Customs Enforcement says it requires the expertise and analysis of industry-leading zero trust analysts, consultants and practitioners to meet the new White House requirements.

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Lawmakers have questions for Energy Secretary about stocks she sold

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 15:35:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Republicans are pressing Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm on how she is abiding by the STOCK Act.

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Companies ask GSA to address inflation in government contracts

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:21:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Coalition for Government Procurement wrote a letter to the Federal Acquisition Service asking what GSA's plan are to address inflation under government contracts.

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Senators looking to pass comprehensive cyber bill

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 15:44:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee is set to consider a bill combining incident reporting requirements and updated federal cyber standards.

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Defense Secretary Austin looks to Mike Bloomberg for advice on innovation

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 12:35:56 -0000

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin turns to Billionaire Mike Bloomberg for advice on innovation at the Department of Defense. Lawmakers on Capitol Hill express concern over the mental health of American federal workers employed overseas. And login.gov is looking for a new director. Maybe it's you.

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Senate bill calls for agencies to prepare for the worst

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 15:16:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers OK a bill with new disaster planning requirements for federal agencies.

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New IG report shows Air Force and the Army had issues rolling out the vaccine for troops overseas

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:16:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a report for the Defense Department Inspector General says providing shots on bases were particularly important since they were less available in civilian facilities overseas.

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New group in Congress to look out for the nation's fighter pilots

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 15:28:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of lawmakers are banding together to create a new caucus focused on the fighter pilot community.

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A new idea in the House has immigration judges becoming their own entity

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 15:07:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, immigration judges would no longer be part of the Justice Department, if a bill introduced in the House passes.

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Contractors have less than two months to create affirmative action programs

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:19:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, most federal supply and service contractors and subcontractors have less than two months to certify that they are meeting their requirement to develop and maintain annual affirmative action programs.

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White House appoints leader of its response to mysterious 'Havana Syndrome'

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 15:19:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration names a top official to lead an interagency response to Havana Syndrome.

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Is the government classifying too much information?

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 14:53:23 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. spy chief certainly seems to think so.

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Army leaders will soon know more about discharging soldiers who are refusing to get vaccinated

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 15:57:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, thought the Army hasn’t involuntarily separated any soldiers for refusing COVID-19 vaccine, guidance on how the process will work is expected as soon as today.

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White House has new guidance for agencies concerning vaccines while its mandates are in limbo

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 14:51:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force is telling agencies to start asking employees whether they’re up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.

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Navy is the latest branch to up its sign on bonuses for certain recruits

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 15:39:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, potential sailors have some new incentives to join the Navy.

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One survey says customer experience with federal agencies is on the decline, while another says the opposite

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 15:50:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, public satisfaction in federal customer experience reached an-time low last year, according to a scorecard that’s been tracking this for decades.

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IG: GSA purchased products from North Korea during height of the pandemic

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 15:40:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration struggled to follow the Trade Agreements Act for some contracts that helped with the response to the pandemic.

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Members of Congress want Pentagon to start covering birth control under TRICARE

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 16:03:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers are trying to achieve cost parity under TRICARE to cover birth control.

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A new mechanism to help agencies avoid buying counterfeit products

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 14:52:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies will have a new weapon in the battle against counterfeit or fraudulent products.

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HHS says it's ready to take over Operation Warp Speed, but GAO is not so sure

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 15:54:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says it’s unclear whether HHS is ready to lead some pandemic response efforts that used to be led by the Defense Department.

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USPS has only made $35 in revenue from banking pilot

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 15:19:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Postal Service banking pilot isn’t drawing many customers.

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Smithsonian and AFGE continue disagreement over COVID-19 safety protocols

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 16:13:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the seeming disconnect between the Smithsonian and its largest employee union continued over the weekend.

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GAO: Agencies had trouble dealing with major cyber incidents in 2020

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 15:14:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Government Accountability Office report on the federal response to the SolarWinds and Microsoft Exchange exploits, shows agencies have a lot of work to do.

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Death benefits for federal employees killed on the job could see first increase in over 20 years

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 15:43:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, death benefits for federal employees killed on the job may increase soon.

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NASA finds itself on the hunt for more astronauts

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:15:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA’s Office of Inspector General has identified a staffing shortage in the agency’s astronaut corps.

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How is the Biden administration doing with filling out senior positions?

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 15:49:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Biden has managed to get fewer of his nominees confirmed to federal agency leadership positions than two of his most recent predecessors, but it’s not for lack of trying.

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GSA relinquishes control of the "dot-gov" domain to CISA

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 15:51:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration formally gives up its management of the Internet’s “dot-gov” top-level domain today.

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New database aims to get a better understanding of suicide within law enforcement

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 15:51:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the FBI is shining a brighter light on the mental health of law enforcement officers.

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USPS asks for more time to implement vaccine mandate

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 15:16:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service is asking for a temporary exemption from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s vaccine-and-testing mandate for large employers.

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Number of federal employees who teleworked regularly in 2020 went up, but not by as much as you might think

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 15:37:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, while COVID-19 drove a majority of federal workers out of the office in 2020, new data from the Office of Personnel Management shows the increase in teleworking wasn't as dramatic as expected.

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Calls for U.S. Capitol Police IG to publish reports

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:08:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, activist group asks the Senate Rules Committee and House Administration Committee to force the Capitol Police to publish inspector general reports online.

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IG warns DOE about its lack of background checks at agency-run child care centers

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 14:33:17 -0000

In this episode of THE FEDERAL NEWSCAST: The First workday of 2022, brought feds in DC their first snow day of 2022. A local union president says just closing some museums is causing the spread of COVID-19. And the Air Force is expanding uniform options for pregnant airmen.

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Sloppy expense-account reporting, leaves former government scientist owing thousands of dollars

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 13:23:46 -0000

A former top government scientist is exposed for thousands of dollars in sloppy expense-account reporting. An $83 million contract might mean millions of COVID test kits in America's future. And online military exchanges are now available to a new crop of customers.

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Postal Service leadership reminds employees to follow online rules

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 12:53:20 -0000

The Pentagon is taking new precautions against Omicron. Postal Service leadership is advising employees to be careful about online activity. And the Federal Managers Association chimes in about the NDAA.

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Next year's $770 billion defense authorization act, includes a raise

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 13:39:04 -0000

The Defense Authorization Bill has been signed....we'll tell you about a few changes. Still on the Pentagon's Circumspect List: China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. And in COVID news, more sailors test positive, while 66 more marines are fired.

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POTUS places order with radiation-hardened microelectronics companies

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 08:57:12 -0000

Lawmakers call for a report on the effect of CMMC on small businesses. A company is now accountable for the mice, mold, and lead paint in military housing. And more medical military troops are on their way to help American hospitals battle COVID.

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VA practitioners reporting higher levels of burnout due to pandemic

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 15:40:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more employees at the Veterans Health Administration say they experienced burnout in 2021 compared to previous years.

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New federal website going up for those looking for COVID-19 tests

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 14:52:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration will roll out a new federal website in response to the omicron variant.

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IG: VA may have to use its data better to make sure resources are going to where they're needed

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 11:35:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, auditors for the Department of Veterans Affairs say the data Veterans Affairs is using to measure its capacity to provide specialty health care might not be accurate.

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Servicemembers who lose their job during deployment get some more help in their corner

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 15:57:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, servicemembers facing job loss after returning from deployment will see a renewed focus from two of their most staunch defenders.

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Senators want to know if federal contractors are actually complying E-Verify rule

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 14:42:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three senior Republican Senators are calling on the Government Accountability Office to look into whether federal contractors are using the e-verify tool for employees.

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As NDAA is on its way to becoming law, here are some details on what's in it

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 15:07:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the 2022 NDAA is on its way to becoming law, we've got some details on what it contains.

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"Hack DHS" program to become permanent fixture at agency

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 15:56:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Homeland Security is making its bug bounty pilot a permanent program.

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Most federal employees are now in the continuous evaluation system, but how do you gauge if its working or not?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 15:47:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, continuous evaluation is a new reality for most security clearance holders, but an audit say agencies need some way to measure its success.

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New Executive Order aims to improve agencies' customer service

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 15:41:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden will sign an executive order aimed at saving Americans time and frustration when seeking a broad array of federal services.

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Agencies get advice on securing their social media accounts

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:39:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has new guidance for how to secure agencies' Twitter, Instagram and other social media accounts.

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CISA on the hunt...this time for artists to decorate its new headquarters

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 15:07:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration is looking for artists to spruce up a new headquarters for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

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No more two-year probationary period for new Pentagon employees

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 15:05:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the two-year probationary is on its way out for civilian employees at the Defense Department.

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USAID putting new money towards making sure developing countries have enough COVID-19 vaccines

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 15:20:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. Agency for International Development is ramping up efforts to make COVID-19 vaccines available worldwide.

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IG: Pentagon may not really know how big a problem extremism in the military is

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 15:41:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the military has some big blind spots when it comes to figuring out how big a problem it has with extremism in the ranks.

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New contracting goals for small disadvantaged businesses

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 14:04:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies have new contracting goals for awards to small disadvantaged businesses.

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Pentagon looking into whether vendors are dropping out due to vaccine requirement

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:29:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is starting to gather data on whether the vaccination mandate for federal contractors is chasing away potential vendors

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Senator wants to know what agencies are doing to protect employees' cell phone

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:12:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Sen. Wyden wants to know what a handful of agencies are doing to deploy countermeasures and protect employees and critical facilities.

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IG: Water quality and mold may be issues when employees return to federal buildings

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 14:31:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, you can add water issues at federal properties to the list of unforeseen consequences from the lockdown.

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Federal government lacking expertise in AI and cybersecurity, GAO reports

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:44:40 -0000

CISA is taking new steps to make your email even safer. The Defense Department is looking to expand private in-home childcare. And the Defense Intelligence Agency just inked a massive IT contract. Those stories and much more...

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Pentagon creating new group to investigate UFO's

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 15:08:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is creating a new office that will look into Unidentified Aerial Phenomena.

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Deadline set for contractors to pay $15/hour wage

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 15:43:27 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Labor Department released the final rule yesterday to implement President Joe Biden's April executive order raising the minimum wage for federal contracts.

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OPM: Use up that extra COVID leave while you can

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:01:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The Office of Personnel Management is reminding federal employees, they might have some extra annual leave due to expire soon.

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White House and Congress both seem to agree lower ranking troops need more money, but how much?

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 15:29:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, he White House says it supports the idea of a “basic needs allowance” for low-income military members, but wants more time to decide how much.

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Chief Data Officers Council gets suggestions on where it should go next

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:03:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the CDO Council received nearly 60 sets of comments in response to a request for information it issued a month ago.

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Pentagon inches closer to clean financial audit

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 15:12:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Defense is still years away from being able to pass a financial audit. But this year’s results show some glimmers of progress.

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Now that the infrastructure bill has passed, the Senate turns its attention to the NDAA

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 15:54:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense authorization bill has been stalled amid infrastructure and reconciliation talks, but the must-pass legislation could see some movement soon.

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One state's National Guard says it won't be complying with federal vaccine mandate

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 14:25:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Oklahoma National Guard has decided to defy DoD’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

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VA researching possible link to veterans' rare cancers and exposure to toxins

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 13:34:15 -0000

The DoD IG reports on a huge shortage of Military prosecutors trained to handle sexual assault cases. A federal district court denies a second group of federal employees a chance to quickly block the vaccine mandate. And the IRS is looking to audit more millionaires.

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VA Secretary explains why agency will never be the same after COVID-19

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 14:57:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs says it's a different agency today because of the pandemic.

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Could we soon see hybrid electric tanks? Pentagon says maybe

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 15:04:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon is charging up a plan to electrify some of its vehicles.

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Biden admin. looking to axe another policy from the previous one

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 15:23:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Labor Department's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has proposed rescinding a Trump era rule.

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Legal challenge to vaccine mandate fast-tracked in court

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 12:03:17 -0000

A federal appeals court is fast-tracking a legal challenge to the president's vaccine mandate for large, private employers. Hundreds of millions of dollars are headed toward IT modernization. The Secretary of State has named two top diplomats to lead efforts to deal with Havana Syndrome.

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Senators hope to help Pentagon prepare for effects of climate change on bases

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 12:57:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is increasingly concerned about sea-level rise and its effect on military bases.

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Another Congressional push to get feds back in the office faster

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 13:25:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of Senate Republicans is joining in the calls for federal employees to return their offices.

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State Dept. says it's back to sending passports out at pre-pandemic levels

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:09:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the State Department says it can now get passports out to customers in a matter of weeks.

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GAO: Trump admin. order to reduce regulations didn't make much of a dent

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:26:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, former President Donald Trump’s executive order directing agencies to repeal two old regulations for every new one added didn’t make much of an impact on agency rulemaking.

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GAO: Trump admin. order to reduce regulations didn't make much of a dent

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:26:26 -0000

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Some more insight on how agencies will handle religious excepts to vaccine mandate

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 13:57:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration offered up a few more details on how it might handle employee requests for a religious exception to the vaccine mandate

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Just how many vaccine exemptions has the military given out?

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:29:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, we get a look at just how many COVID-19 vaccine exemptions the military is allowing.

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GOP members of Congress have lingering questions about federal vaccine mandate

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 12:22:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top Republicans on the House Oversight and Reform Committee have more questions about the Biden administration's vaccine mandate for federal employees.

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New features to help modernize the Thrift Savings Plan

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 13:18:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the TSP is rolling out some new services for participants next summer.

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Customs and Border Protection punished dozens of employees for social media posts

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 13:27:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new documents from the House Oversight and Reform Committee show the extent of how CBP handled employee misconduct.

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Federal contractors will need to decide which of their employees are exempt from vaccine mandate

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 13:19:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration says federal contractors should decide how they'll grant accommodations to their own employees.

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Pentagon trying to stay ahead of issues from climate change

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 13:10:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is continuing to prepare for climate change related problems.

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Civilian defense employees find out just what will happen if they refuse the COVID-19 vaccine

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 13:21:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The Pentagon is spelling out what will happen to civilian employees who do not want to get vaccinated.

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Congressman worried TSA may lose workers because of vaccine mandate

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 13:29:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one House Republican is worried the Transportation Security Administration will lose a good portion of its workforce over the Biden administration's vaccine mandate.

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While the Pentagon is doing more business with small companies, the list of candidates is shrinking

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 13:52:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department has spent more of its contracting budget on small businesses in recent years, but those dollars are going to a shrinking pool of companies.

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Ongoing feud between SSA OIG and FLEOA continues

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 13:33:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the spat between the Social Security Administration's inspector general office and a federal employee group continues.

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Navy lays out what will happen to sailor who refuse vaccination

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 13:32:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Navy has laid out detailed processes for sailors who refuse COVID-19 vaccines.

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Airmen running out of time to get vaccinated before facing consequences

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 13:31:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force mandated that all airmen need to be fully inoculated against coronavirus by November 2.

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Senator looking into potential pay abuse at ATF

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 13:59:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is looking into pay abuse at the law enforcement agency.

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A new law designed to help schools battle cybersecurity risks

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 07:41:48 -0000

A new law aims to shed light on the cybersecurity risks faced by American schools. Fewer postal workers recommend taking a job with the agency. And the Veterans Affairs Department found more than $100 million in savings by getting rid of old technologies.

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Delta variant has forced some agencies to adjust return-to-work plans

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 13:25:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the delta variant of COVID-19 is pushing back return-to-work timelines for some federal employees.

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Biden admin. on the hunt for a new Chief Statistician

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 13:43:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget seeks a Chief Statistician to the Biden administration’s data priorities forward.

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DOJ's new initiative aims to hold federal contractors accountable for their cybersecurity efforts

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 14:24:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department is bringing the power of the False Claims Act to the growing challenge of cybersecurity.

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One of the nation's top public health officials is calling it a career

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 13:40:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Dr. Francis Collins says he'll leave his post as director of the National Institutes of Health by the end of the year.

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Pentagon civilian employees get their deadline to receive COVID-19 vaccine

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:28:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Defense put out a timeline for when civilians must get their first and second shots based on the type of vaccine in order to be in compliance.

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Vaccine guidance for contractors leaves many open questions

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 14:48:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Council has issued regulatory guidance on implementation of the vaccine mandate for federal contractors.

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Increase in military suicide rates continues troubling trend

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:35:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is seeing troubling new figures in military suicide rates.

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Agencies looking for industry ideas on tracking vaccinations among their employees

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 14:24:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal agencies are looking for private sector ideas on collecting vaccine information for their employees.

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Secret Service agents are getting tapped out by the workload

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 14:11:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a review by the National Academy of Public Administration says Secret Service employees are doing more than ever with less.

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New evidence shows extent of 'Mar-a-Lago Trio' involvement with VA modernization efforts

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 13:42:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats have new documents that show the extent to which three associates of former President Trump developed their own agenda to transform the Department of Veterans Affairs.

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Veterans Affairs gearing up to offer COVID-19 booster shots to vets and employees

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 13:39:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs says it's ready to offer COVID-19 booster shots to veterans and employees who have received their first vaccine doses six months ago or longer.

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Border Patrol union looking to challenge the president's vaccine mandate may have hit a dead end

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 13:55:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Border Patrol Council continues to search for a legal avenue to challenge the president's vaccine mandate for federal employees.

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A delayed budget could hamstring the Space Force

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:59:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the possibility of a delayed budget might slow down the Space Force.

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House Republicans say it's time federal agencies fully open their doors to the public

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 13:46:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, ten House Republicans want to know why more federal employees aren't working in person.

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U.S. troops may have left Afghanistan, but federal contracting goes on

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:26:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal contracting continues in Afghanistan, and the Pentagon takes steps to ensure security of those performing it.

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Military COVID deaths rise sharply among the unvaccinated

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 10:59:55 -0000

Hitting hard at the unvaccinated, military COVID deaths nearly double since mid-July. Customs and Border Protection opens a first-of-its-kind facility for checking air shipments. And new Interior Department leadership means the Bureau of Land Management headquarters will return to D.C.

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Federal Service Impasses Panel back in action

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 13:20:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Service Impasses Panel is back to work with all new members.

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Defense Department looks to buy more monoclonal antibodies

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:24:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a major contract from the Pentagon to purchase more doses of one of the only proven treatments of COVID-19.

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Senators reintroduce bill to end government shutdowns, to bring awareness to the one potentially on the way

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 13:22:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two Senators say they're reintroducing their bill now to bring attention to the upcoming fiscal year deadline.

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Former Walter Reed Department Head Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 11:33:54 -0000

A contractor and Walter Reed employee plead guilty to corruption. The Defense Department doubles-down on it skepticism of Chinese-made drones. And the nation’s top spy office is setting up a new organization to counter disinformation campaigns.

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Military has deadliest stretch of COVID-19 in August

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 13:58:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, nearly a dozen military service members dies of COVID-19 in August.

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TSA increasing fines for those who violate federal mask mandate in airports

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 13:06:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Transportation Security Administration is increasing fines for individuals who don’t follow a federal mask mandate at airports and on commercial flights.

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IRS issues warning about its lack of funding for IT systems

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:45:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the IRS warns its IT systems are severely underfunded, and must take extraordinary measures to keep it running.

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Defense Department seeking public input for renaming bases with that honor Confederate leaders

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 12:36:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is changing the names of some of its most high profile bases and it wants the public’s help.

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Pentagon looks to address supply chain issues exposed by pandemic

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:51:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon is launching a two-year effort to fix supply chain problems.

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Federal managers worried about implementing White House's vaccine and testing policies

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 13:10:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal managers say they need more guidance from the Biden administration about the new vaccine and testing policy for employees.

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Should political appointees have access to a car service all day?

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 13:46:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one agency is testing the idea of not having cars at their executives' beckon call.

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Some federal employees still stuck in Afghanistan

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 13:15:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan leaves some federal employees behind.

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Many federal agencies pitching in for Hurricane Ida response

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 13:51:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies are pulling out all the stops in the response to Hurricane Ida.

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FEMA deploying over 2,000 employees as Ida carves destructive path

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:42:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more than 2,400 FEMA employees are in place to help out citizens in Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi and other states that are in the path of Hurricane Ida.

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IG: GSA did not always take steps to limit COVID-19 exposure in federal buildings

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 10:49:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration didn’t always take appropriate steps to limit exposure to COVID-19 in federal buildings, according to its inspector general.

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USDA looking to stop the next pandemic before it begins

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 11:31:37 -0000

The Agriculture Department is investing $300 million to build an early warning system against the next pandemic.

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With Afghan government falling, the Pentagon now trying to decide what to do with the money it was going to give it

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 13:20:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon is determining what it should do with billions intended for the Afghan armed forces.

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USPS sees steep decline in revenue due to lack of passport applications during pandemic

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 13:36:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service saw a more than 30% decrease in passport applications last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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New report suggests cutting down number of appointees who need Senate confirmation

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 13:36:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate has more political appointees than ever to confirm, and the process itself is taking longer.

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USCIS looking to hire thousands to help speed up asylum process

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 10:34:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration wants to hire potentially thousands of new federal employees to overhaul the asylum process for immigrants arriving at the border.

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Some military installations are reinstituting COVID-19 travel restrictions

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 09:51:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, military bases are beginning to restrict travel again as coronavirus rates are on the rise.

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IG report shows federal agencies have been failing in Afghanistan for years

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 13:41:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, during its 20 years in Afghanistan, no specific agency had the mindset, expertise or resources to develop the country, according to the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.

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Senator wants agencies to take bigger role in going after fake vaccine cards

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 13:39:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is calling on federal agencies to crack down on fake vaccine cards.

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House staffers could now make more than the representatives they work for

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 14:15:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new salary caps mean House staffers can now make up to nearly $200,000 a year.

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Federal employees union give their take on the president's new vaccine guidance

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 14:35:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employee unions are responding to President Biden's new vaccine guidance.

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Employee organization has some suggestions on how to achieve equal pay

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 13:30:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new recommendations to the Office of Personnel Management from a federal employee-run organization are trying to close the pay gaps between men and women and among racial groups.

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Bipartisan infrastructure bill includes funds to help federal cyber efforts

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:13:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the $1 trillion infrastructure bill passed by the Senate gives the National Cyber Director money to get started, and a rainy-day fund for cyber incidents.

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Congressman looks to punish those responsible for mysterious Havana Syndrome

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 13:01:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill from the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s top Republican looks to punish anyone found responsible for an illness called Havana Syndrome.

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Congressman looks to punish those responsible for mysterious Havana Syndrome

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 13:01:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill from the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s top Republican looks to punish anyone found responsible for an illness called Havana Syndrome.

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Members of Congress want more transparency on troop movements

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 13:15:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, some members of Congress want a deeper look into how the Defense Department is allocating its troops.

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NSA wants you to be careful where you log in to telework

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:12:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in a new advisory, the NSA laid out best practices for securing wireless devices in public settings.

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Navy's top doctor says it may be time to require COVID-19 vaccine for servicemembers

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 14:05:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Navy surgeon general says he favor a vaccine mandate for military members.

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Congressional inaction on debt ceiling causes Treasury to take action with Thrift Savings Plan

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 13:09:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Treasury Department is temporarily suspending investments in the Thrift Savings Plan's G-fund to prevent the government from defaulting on debt.

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Looks like the Pentagon may have itself to blame for its cyber recruiting troubles

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 13:52:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department Inspector General says the Pentagon’s bureaucracy is getting in the way of hiring the cyber employees the military needs.

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NASA gets the ok to continue contract related to sending humans back to the moon

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 13:46:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA is able to move forward with a contract award involved with its plans for sending people back to the moon.

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In rare move, members of Congress want White House to request more money for one particular agency

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 13:59:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two Senators are asking the White House to make a larger budget request for the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

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GAO: CARES Act provision keeping contractors afloat during pandemic showed great success

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 13:37:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the provision in the CARES Act that lets agencies reimburse contractors who can't work because of the pandemic was an overwhelming success.

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Proposed vaccine mandate for federal employees could face some legal hurdles

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 13:42:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the federal employee vaccination mandate expected from the White House may not go down easy.

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GAO: Agencies could've been more transparent pandemic response OTA's

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 13:15:06 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies spent billions on urgent COVID-related contracts, but they neglected to report some important award information.

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Senators looking to mandate whistleblower training for all VA employees

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 13:31:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan pair of senators want to write whistleblower training for employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs into law.

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Labor Dept. offering sessions for federal contractor minimum wage increase

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 14:02:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Labor will offer virtual seminars throughout August to prepare for federal contract minimum wage increases.

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DOD looking into what happens if the most important briefcase in the world goes missing

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 13:26:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department Inspector General is undergoing an evaluation to find out how the Pentagon would respond if the "nuclear football" was stolen, lost or compromised.

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Agencies are told to consider environmental justice in policy decisions

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:38:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The White House issued interim guidance yesterday directing agencies to develop plans for meeting the Biden administration’s Justice40 initiative.

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Agencies could have some extra cyber defenses by the end of the year

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 13:37:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the federal government could have multifactor authentication and encryption technologies fully deployed across its networks within six months.

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House Democrats lay out plans for Social Security after Covid

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:03:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats have an idea of what the Social Security Administration should look like whenever the pandemic ends.

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Biden administration launches new website to combat ransomware

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 10:39:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: This summer's Post Office rate increases are expected to decrease business and make more money. The U.S. Fleet Forces Command has a new leader. And the latest weapon to fight hackers? A new website.

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Whistleblower allegations cause Biden Nominee at Pentagon to withdraw

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:35:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: A POTUS Pentagon pick pulls out, under a cloud, the Government Publishing Office announces a very generous telework policy, and the latest Postal Service budget, might not be enough.

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Crackdown in the works against acquisition fraud and misconduct

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 11:04:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast: Air Force contracting officials and law enforcement have agreed to crackdown on acquisition fraud. The State Department is under fire for its backlog of passport applications. And a bill in Congress wants to prevent agencies from warrantless high-tech tracking.

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Senate confirms permanent director for CISA

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 11:24:28 -0000

- Senate confirmation brings CISA a new full-time, permanent leader. - The booming national housing market takes a toll on military families. - Federal firefighters are one step closer to a major pay raise.

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The death of the JEDI Cloud will lead to new life in October

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:06:05 -0000

One of the biggest and most bipartisan bills is ready for mark-up in the Senate. The JEDI Cloud contract's death leads to life...elsewhere. And as the Intelligence Community continues working toward diversity, we have a status report.

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Whistleblower claim leads to more efficient contracting practices at HHS

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 13:32:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Health and Human Services will strengthen internal controls when using Other Transaction Authorities, for procurements outside of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.

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DoD sets deadline for other providers to get in on new cloud project

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 13:54:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon is giving other cloud service providers to participate in new contract after it cancelled the JEDI Cloud project.

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Federal cyber leaders to meet with President today to talk ransomware

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 13:28:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the leaders of key agencies will meet today to discuss the government’s ransomware strategy.

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DHS and VA joining forces to locate deported veterans

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:39:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Departments of Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs say they'll work together to identify deported veterans and give them the VA benefits they're entitled to.

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NSA warning agencies and organizations about new kind of Russian cyber attack

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:47:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Security Agency is urging government contractors and other organizations to watch out for a new Russian cyber attack.

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U.S. citizens can now self-select their gender on their passports

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 09:26:56 -0000

- State Department makes a big policy change to passports. - All federal fighters will likely make no less than $15 dollars an hour. - And the Guantanamo Bay detention facility is on the chopping block...again.

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House passes bill to give IG's more job security

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 13:45:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House passes a comprehensive bill to strengthen the role of agency inspectors general.

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Pentagon testing out covering in-home child care for servicemembers

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 13:24:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department will begin covering in-home child care costs for some military families under a new pilot program.

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White House issues new marching orders improve agencies' diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 12:54:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies have new direction from the Biden administration to improve diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within the federal workforce.

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Senate skips town for two weeks before confirming new CISA director

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 09:34:53 -0000

- The POTUS pick to lead CISA is hacked by a political maneuver. - OPM has its first permanent leader in a year. - The debate over expanding paid family leave for federal employees turns ugly.

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GAO: Cost of cleaning up PFAS chemicals is only going to increase

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 13:19:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office estimates how much it's going to cost for the Defense Department to continue investigating and cleaning up the so called "forever chemicals."

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CISA: No organization in the public or private sector could've prevented SolarWinds breach

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 13:44:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, when it came to the SolarWinds cyber attack, the private sector was in no better shape than the government to stop or block the attack.

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Pentagon easing more COVID-19 restrictions within the building

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 13:39:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, beginning June 23rd, those working in the Pentagon will begin to see some new coronavirus restrictions lifted.

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VA to start providing gender confirmation surgeries for its patients

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 14:15:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs plans to add gender confirmation surgery to the list of benefits it offers to vets in its health care system.

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One Senator puts hold on new CISA director

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 12:40:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) is placing a hold on confirming Jen Easterly as the director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

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House Republicans want to know why certain White House appointees got an ethics pass

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 13:44:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top House Republicans want to know why the administration granted ethics waivers to two political appointees at the Office of Personnel Management and Office of Management and Budget.

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House Republicans want to know why certain White House appointees got an ethics pass

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 13:44:01 -0000

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Defense Secretary considering making COVID-19 vaccine mandatory for military personnel

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 13:08:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with vaccine rates lagging among some members of the armed forces, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is reportedly weighing whether or not to make it mandatory.

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Some members of Congress are skeptical about White House's plans to bring feds back to the office

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 13:34:23 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two of the top Republicans on the House Oversight and Reform Committee say the administration's reopening plans for federal employees are unacceptable.

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Senators press White House for plan of action on ransomware attacks

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 11:28:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Biden administration is being pressed for answers on its strategy to combat ransomware.

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NIH looks to address structural racism in biomedical science field

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 12:31:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Institutes of Health is taking actions under a long term plan to end structural racism in the biomedical science field.

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Major federal health insurance provider offering incentive to get COVID-19 vaccine

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 13:20:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one of the most popular insurance plans for federal employees is offering an incentive for getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

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Some companies may choose not to work with DOD because of CMMC

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 14:54:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, companies manufacturing electronics may opt out of working with the Defense Department because of the cost of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program.

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IRS could have IT workforce issues on the horizon

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 12:52:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration says a high number of IT workers at the IRS are eligible to retirement.

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GAO: DHS' IG needs help carrying out oversight duties

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 12:57:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office has a tough assessment of the inspector general's office at the Department of Homeland Security.

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White House makes fighting corruption a major focal point of its national security policy

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 12:52:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new White House memorandum establishes fighting corruption as a core national security interest for the Biden administration.

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Legislation calls for examining if agencies should relocate from DC

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 13:30:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan group of lawmakers are pushing for a commission to study whether agencies should be relocated outside the Washington, D.C. metro area.

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SBA says goodbye to its largest program ever

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 13:05:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Payroll Protection Program, a feature of the 2020 legislation to help the country in the pandemic, has ended.

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Bill to give TSA officers General Schedule pay gets Senate companion

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 12:14:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Rights for the TSA Workforce Act would give transportation security officers General Schedule pay and collective bargaining rights.

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$100,000 ID-theft scheme earns VA employee a 46-month federal-prison sentence

Mon, 31 May 2021 10:46:35 -0000

National Security experts are calling on the U.S. to expand its list of banned Chinese companies. A small-town VA employee's $100,000 scheme gets him 46 months in federal prison. And following the science, the Senate confirms POTUS's pick to lead his Office of Science and Technology Policy

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Fake invoices cost complicit contractor $50million

Fri, 28 May 2021 11:09:13 -0000

- A defense contractor that created fake invoices, pays the government $50 million. - OPM has elevated is office of diversity and inclusion. - If given a choice to attend a big indoor event in-person or not, virtual wins out.

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New DFARS rule aims to reduce amount of bid protests

Thu, 27 May 2021 12:09:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three years in the making, the Defense Department sets out its process for how contracting officers should do enhanced debriefings.

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IG: Veterans Affairs may have overlooked cost of physical improvements needed for EHR

Wed, 26 May 2021 13:15:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department's inspector general says VA initially underestimated the costs of physical infrastructure upgrades needed to support its new electronic health record.

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Contracting community asks Congress for more tech funding...again

Tue, 25 May 2021 12:14:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, government contractors are pressing House and Senate leaders to include more funding for federal technology and cybersecurity in the infrastructure package.

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Climate change executive order could impact federal employees TSP accounts

Mon, 24 May 2021 13:10:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new climate change executive order could have implications for federal employees and the Thrift Savings Plan.

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Congressman wants to pump the brakes on allowing feds back to the office

Fri, 21 May 2021 13:27:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-Virg.) says not so fast with the reopening plans for federal employees.

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Senators want to provide financial aid for those suffering from mysterious Havana Syndrome

Thu, 20 May 2021 12:25:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, diplomats and intelligence personnel suffering from a mysterious illness called Havana Syndrome would get additional support from a bill introduced by 15 senators.

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New bill could have your mailman double as your bartender

Wed, 19 May 2021 13:06:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House and Senate lawmakers seek to overturn a ban on the Postal Service shipping alcohol to households.

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Whistleblower advocates say federal employees need some educating

Tue, 18 May 2021 13:33:17 -0000

A big holiday is coming up in July. It celebrates free people who don't stay silent in the face of wrongdoing. No, not Independence Day July 4th. It's National Whistleblower Day on July 30. Now the National Whistleblower Center has urged federal agency heads to offer educational programming about July 30th. The Federal Drive got more now from the chairman of the National Whistle Blower Center and partner at Korn, Kohn and Colapinto, Stephen Kohn.

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IG: CBP's social media policies could use an update

Tue, 18 May 2021 12:31:30 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report finds senior leaders at Customs and Border Protection could have done more to address inappropriate and offensive social media comments from employees.

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DOD says servicmembers and civilian employees can leave masks at home if vaccinated

Mon, 17 May 2021 13:30:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon says military members and civilian employees can do their jobs without masks, as long as they’re fully vaccinated.

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IG: OPM could've done better job informing its workers about possible COVID exposures

Fri, 14 May 2021 12:28:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the watchdog for the Office of Personnel Management says the agency didn't do enough to inform its employees of positive or suspected COVID-19 cases last year.

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Secret Service lending a hand in nabbing COVID relief fraudsters

Thu, 13 May 2021 13:25:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Secret Service is wielding its investigative powers to take on COVID related financial fraud.

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CISA looking to use new personnel system to hire more cyber workers

Wed, 12 May 2021 13:27:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the much-anticipated Cyber Talent Management System at the Homeland Security Department may finally be ready.

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GAO: Pentagon may want to find alternative to GPS

Tue, 11 May 2021 13:17:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new Government Accountability Office report finds that the Defense Department is relying too much on GPS.

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Though the worst is over, CISA wants agencies to stay on guard after SolarWinds breach

Mon, 10 May 2021 12:55:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency wants to make sure agencies don't let down their guard on Russian cyber threats.

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Federal union has some ideas on how to address Pentagon workforce shortages

Fri, 07 May 2021 13:24:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the largest Federal employee union has some ideas of how to address the Department of Defense's skill gaps.

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Pentagon wants white-hat hackers to try and penetrate all of its websites

Thu, 06 May 2021 13:24:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department has expanded its program of using external hackers to probe systems for cybersecurity vulnerability.

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After Trump axed plan, senators now ask President Biden for plan for new FBI headquarters

Wed, 05 May 2021 13:19:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, senators from Maryland and Virginia press President Joe Biden to come up with a plan for a new FBI headquarters.

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Pentagon declines permit for Rolling Thunder event to use parking lot

Tue, 04 May 2021 12:37:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a prominent veterans group says the Pentagon has decided not to allow it use the building’s parking lots as the staging area for its annual Memorial Day motorcycle ride.

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President Biden reaches out to federal employees during public service recognition week

Mon, 03 May 2021 12:56:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden has a new message for federal employees during Public Service Recognition Week.

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Two powerful chairmen, criticize White House for 'dragging its feet' on defense spending

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 12:52:19 -0000

Chairmen from both houses think the White House is slow-moving on defense. A Navy plan to cut doctors is getting reexamined. And the National Science Foundation wants to hand out $22 million dollars to teams of problems solvers.

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Biden selects one MSPS nominee, more will be needed though

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:17:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Biden has tapped one, but only one, person to fill longstanding vacancies at the Merit Systems Protection Board.

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EPA setting up team to deal with "forever chemicals"

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 14:05:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new council at the Environmental Protection Agency will be tasked with researching how to protect communities facing issues with PFAS chemicals.

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Biden administration wants government to be standard bearer for union relations

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 13:25:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden signs a new executive order designed to promote collective bargaining.

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GAO: F-35 sustainment costs may outweigh benefits of buying new ones

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 13:17:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says DOD's plan to buy 2,500 F-35's may not a good idea.

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GSA has new ambitious goal for using renewable electricity in all federal buildings

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 13:08:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration has a goal using renewable electricity for the entire federal real estate portfolio by 2025

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Senate bill calls for enhancing AI expertise in the federal workforce

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:15:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and John Thune (R-S.D.)introduced bipartisan legislation to help the government remain competitive in employing artificial intelligence talent.

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Two agencies launching 100-day effort to improve cyber protections for electrical infrastructure

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 13:11:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Energy Department and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency are leading a new 100-day effort to improve the cybersecurity of the electric infrastructure.

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A new COVID-19 testing plan for federal workers

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 12:26:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say agencies should provide diagnostic COVID-19 testing for unvaccinated federal employees.

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Postal Service seems to be getting back on track with on-time mail delivery

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 13:30:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, USPS data shows it's been able to improve delivery times after a busy holiday season.

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House and Senate Dems want to allow Postal Service to do more banking activities

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 12:51:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House and Senate Democrats press the rest of Congress to let the Postal Service get into the banking business.

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New office in Treasury Dept. will oversee COVID-19 relief spending

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 11:08:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Treasury Department is standing up a central office to oversee COVID-19 economic relief spending.

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Were you hazed while serving in the military? GAO may want to hear from you

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 12:41:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office is looking for service members who were victims of hazing while they served.

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White House announces nominations for leadership roles at DEA, Army, and others

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 13:41:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden announces his picks for a slew of leadership roles.

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GSA wants to make it easier for companies to get agencies what they need for pandemic response

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 13:16:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, to help agencies get the products and services they need faster as the pandemic continues, the General Services Administration is waving three key requirements for new and existing companies to earn a spot on the schedules contract.

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GPO taking on ambitious task of digitizing every publicly available federal document

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 12:54:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Publishing Office is taking on a massive project to digitize every federal document in its National Collection of U.S. Government Public Information.

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House reps want mechanism for veterans to report sexual harassment at VA facilities

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 13:23:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over 50 House members are urging the Department of Veterans Affairs to create a centralized spot within the agency to report sexual harassment.

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Former HUD official faces punishment for Hatch Act violation during the Trump administration

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 13:16:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Special Counsel handed down a fine and two-year ban from federal service to a former official at Housing and Urban Development.

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USPTO sweetening the deal for Covid-related patents

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 13:06:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, inventors working anything Covid related could get special goodies from the Patent and Trademark Office.

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Cabinet secretaries get their marching orders on the White House's Buy American initiative

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 13:25:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden told Cabinet secretaries to take a "hard look at their agency's spending" to make sure they are meeting the goals of his January Buy American executive order.

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Organizations ask Education Dept. to forgive federal employees student loan debt

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 12:18:23 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the two largest federal employee unions are calling on the Education Department to cancel student debt for federal employees with 10 years or more of public service.

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What does the White House's infrastructure plan mean for federal agencies?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:31:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs hospitals and other federal facilities would get some attention under President Biden's infrastructure plan.

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TRICARE beneficiaries can now set up COVID vaccine appointments online

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 14:25:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, if you get your healthcare via the Defense Department, you can now make an appointment for a COVID vaccination online.

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Members of Congress want USPS to pause new delivery vehicle contract

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:05:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over a dozen lawmakers are asking the Postal Service to halt its next-generation delivery vehicle contract.

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HHS looking for federal employees to volunteer at U.S. southern border

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 13:38:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Health and Human Services is looking for federal employees to serve four-month details at the southern border

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Lawmakers want to even out the rules for federal employees and prior cannabis use

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 13:44:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of lawmakers urge President Joe Biden to backpedal firings and suspensions of White House staffers for prior cannabis use.

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Investigation finds Navy's former auditor general sexually harassed at least a dozen female subordinates

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 13:15:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon’s inspector general found Ronnie Booth, the Navy’s former auditor general, engaged in what the I-G called a “pervasive and egregious pattern” of harassment.

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Report: DoD's lack of movement on modernization efforts could come back to haunt it

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 12:58:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the American Enterprise Institute says the Pentagon has been punting its responsibilities in the past.

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Two large government conference organizers suffer data breach

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 13:02:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two large government conference organizers say the third party vendor they use for conference registration was the victim of a ransomware attack.

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Blood donations on military bases down significantly

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 13:11:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the military’s program for collecting blood and plasma donations says it’s facing an emergency supply problem.

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Congress gives four agencies 10 days to assess the SolarWinds damage

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 13:38:36 -0000

- Congress is asking four agencies about damage sustained by the SolarWinds attack. - Legislation in both chambers looks to make government buildings greener. - And the post office makes a March Madness comeback.

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Bill to let anyone who served get a vaccine at VA passes Senate

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:12:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate has passed legislation that would let VA vaccinate anyone who’s ever served in the military, plus their spouses.

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Army has new plan for controlling the top of the globe

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 13:36:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army issues a new strategy for straightening up the nation's flagpole in the Arctic.

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Some federal workers in D.C. could be getting COVID-19 vaccines soon

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 13:51:48 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the District of Columbia will open up vaccine eligibility to essential employees at federal agencies in the area starting April 12th.

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Federal employees with clearances saw their pay go up last year

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 12:51:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new survey by ClearanceJobs.com and the DHI Group found the average salary among people with security clearances increase.

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VA protocols to respond to COVID-19 caused additional challenges

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 15:27:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department's Inspector General lays out some issues with the agency's COVID-19 response.

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Former EPA leaders want Congress to help restore federal scientific workforce

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 15:05:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, former administrators from the Environmental Protection Agency are encouraging Congress to help EPA rebuild its cadre of scientific talent.

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A new agency to officially take over the .gov domain

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 15:11:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, any agency wanting a brand new website will have to go through a new provider.

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GSA is getting into the cryptocurrency game

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 14:33:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration is selling off cryptocurrency to the highest bidder.

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DHS looking for industry ideas on finding and keeping cyber talent

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 15:56:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Homeland Security is asking for feedback from vendors on how it should pay in-demand cybersecurity experts.

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Senator trying to give federal employees a raise...again

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 16:03:23 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) is making another push to give federal employees a raise next year.

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Energy Dept. restarting loan program for clean energy

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 14:34:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in one of her first moves as Energy Secretary, Jennifer Granholm is reviving one of the agency's largest loan programs for clean energy.

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Defense workers get ethic reminder from DoD secretary

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:29:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is reminding servicemembers and DoD employees about the ethical values of the department.

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DoD study reveals soldiers need to get more shut-eye

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 14:40:06 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new DoD study estimates 64 percent of servicemembers routinely sleep for less than seven hours a night.

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COVID relief bill includes provisions to help federal employees

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 15:40:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the $1.9 trillion COVID relief package that cleared the House Friday night includes a few key provisions for federal employees.

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President Biden scraps Trump EO on defense workers collective bargaining authority

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 15:31:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Joe Biden rescinded a 2020 memo that gave the Defense secretary the authority to exclude certain employees from collective bargaining.

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More vaccination sites staffed by U.S. military get up and running

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 14:51:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, mass vaccination sites staffed by active duty military members are now up and running in three more cities, with more set to come online in the next few days.

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DOJ could start taking a closer look at cybersecurity fraud on government technology providers

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:22:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, officials at the Justice Department are sending a warning to government contractors, they will be turning up the False Claims heat on cybersecurity fraud.

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Office of Government Ethics has directions on who can bypass President's ethics pledge

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 15:12:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Government Ethics has more instructions on how agencies should implement President's Biden's new ethics pledge.

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TSA looking to hire thousands of new airport screeners

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 14:40:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Transportation Security Administration is launching a national recruitment campaign to fill the jobs by this summer.

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DMV lawmakers want government to have its own batch of COVID vaccines for federal workers

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers in the national capital region say the federal government should get its own supply to vaccinate federal workers.

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Defense Department receives praise for efficient IT spending

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 14:43:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon’s inspector general gives high marks to DoD’s information technology response to COVID-19.

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U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt hit with another pocket of COVID-19 cases

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 15:16:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, coronavirus has returned to the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt, the same carrier that saw a massive COVID-19 outbreak last year.

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More paid leave for federal employees takes another step towards reality

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:45:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Oversight and Reform Committee cleared a 570-million-dollar emergency paid leave sick leave bank for federal employees and postal workers.

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Group of retired military officials back idea of making women register for the draft

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 15:10:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the idea of requiring women to register for the draft now has the support of a handful of both male and female retired generals and flag officers.

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DMV leaders want federal government to create plan for vaccinating federal employees

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 15:25:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, national capital area leaders say the federal government should take the lead in directly vaccinating the region's federal workers.

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New study says sexual assault in the military is starting to hurt overall strength

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 15:09:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as sexual assault continues to be a bigger issue in the military, a new study finds it is affecting retention.

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DOJ employees not required to get vaccine, but the agency can ask if they have or not

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:13:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department isn't requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for its employees right now, but it may have more vaccine information at a later date.

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Pentagon IG reveals how Coronavirus was able to run wild on two Navy ships in 2020

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 14:35:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, A new Pentagon inspector general’s report helps explain how two Navy vessels suffered major coronavirus outbreaks last year.

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DMV reps want to let feds use leave to get covid vaccine

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:06:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Maryland and Virginia Democrats say federal employees should have the option of taking administrative leave to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

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President Biden looking to attract more people from STEM fields into the national security workforce

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 15:47:33 -0000

A new memo from President Biden will create a new inter-agency task force to develop proposals to recruit, retain and support national security professionals.

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Congressman wonders when DHS frontline employees will get vaccinated

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 14:45:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member John Katko (R-NY) wants to know what the plan is for vaccinating frontline DHS employees.

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Congresswoman wants security clearance applicants to submit social media activity

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 15:40:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one member of Congress wants the Defense Department to start looking at social media posts as part of the security clearance process.

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Online petition calls for letting soldiers have beards

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 11:45:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the Army made huge changes to its grooming standards last week, some soldiers want more change.

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Pandemic has caused major delays in FOIA requests

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 15:20:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies are reporting widespread processing delays for Freedom of Information Act requests during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Members of Congress want to help federal law enforcement officers retire if they're hurt on the job

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 14:45:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Fair RETIRE Act would allow injured officers to stay in the same retirement system if they take another job within the civil service.

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Members of Congress want to put defense funds President Trump used for a border wall back where he found them

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 15:18:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration used Defense Department funds to build parts of a border wall. Now Congress wants that money back where it originally put it.

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TSP sets milestones in assets and members

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 15:16:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Thrift Savings Plan crosses the $700-billion threshold for the first time ever.

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GSA testing to see how much low-value work agency employees are doing

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 14:51:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over a third of federal employees say they spent as many as five hours out of their work week doing low-value or tedious work.

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RAND: Federal STEM workers earning thousands less than private-sector

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 15:04:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the RAND Corporation finds that the private sector pays more … but federal agencies offer other benefits to its scientists.

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IRS looking to expand reach to non-English speakers

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 15:14:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with the tax filing season soon underway, the IRS is making its website more accessible to non-English speakers.

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Pres. Biden looks to puts a hold on any midnight regulations from the Trump administration

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 15:16:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House tells agencies to hold off on publishing any new rules until after President Biden’s appointees have had a chance to review them.

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Before leaving office, Trump orders CSO's to identify customers

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 14:53:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new executive order from President Trump demands that cloud computing companies verify the identities of their customers.

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President Trump orders senior appointees to sign off on new regulations

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 14:26:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Donald Trump signs an executive order requiring senior political appointees to sign off on new federal regulations.

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GAO: Though improved, DHS' employee engagement still needs a lot of work

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 15:34:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office sees some progress in the efforts from the Department of Homeland Security to improve employee engagement.

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Dozens of VOA reporters calling for director to resign

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 14:53:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 26 journalists at Voice of America have demanded that VOA's director Robert Reilly resign after a reporter was reassigned for they say was a retaliatory measure.

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Government looking to reign in where it's drones come from

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 12:36:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, GSA is removing all drones from Multiple Award Schedule Contracts that do not have the approval of the Defense Department.

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New bill could put more rules on departing federal employees

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 15:14:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two House lawmakers want to close what they call are loop holes for senior government officials when they leave federal service for the private sector.

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Congresswoman says CBP has not fulfilled subpoenas for information on officers' online activity

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 15:45:16 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the top Democrat on the House Oversight and Reform Committee says Customs and Border Protection has yet to satisfy her document requests

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NASA and FAA working together to ensure healthy future for commercial space travel

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 14:40:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with commercial space travel gaining momentum, NASA and the FAA are detailing how they'll support it.

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Union files grievance against EPA administrator over recap of negotiations

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 15:32:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, A union representing EPA employees has filed an unfair labor practice charge, saying Administrator Andrew Wheeler is lying about its negotiations with the agency.

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Contract spending reach 5-year high in 2020

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 15:09:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new analysis from Bloomberg Government found agencies spent almost 700 billion dollars on procurement last year.

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Veterans Affairs gives an update on it's vaccine distribution efforts

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 14:57:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, at least 132,000 health care professionals at the Department of Veterans Affairs have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

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CIA unveils new website to step up recruitment efforts

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 14:36:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the CIA adds another piece to its two-plus year effort to change the way its recruits the next generation of employees.

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OMB takes offense to Biden transition team's comments on its level of cooperation

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 15:06:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget is not amused by recent claims from the Biden transition team that the agency isn't cooperating.

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Want a job with Joe? The Plum Book contains thousands!

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 12:16:50 -0000

Do you want a job? The Government Publishing Office is out with the latest Plum Book. The Commerce Department IG raises data-quality concerns over 2020 census responses. And the cap on premium overtime pay for certain Secret Service agents is increased.

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Virginia congressman wants to know the vaccination plans for federal employees

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 13:20:16 -0000

Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) wants to know when and how Federal Employees will get vaccinated. The reenlisted rate in one branch of the military is sky high. And the COVID-19 relief checks are in the mail and being deposited directly.

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Part of Trump's ban on diversity training is blocked by a California federal judge

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 13:01:53 -0000

The executive order trying to ban certain types of diversity training is in trouble. During these last days in office, it looks like a first override is in the cards for President Trump. And postal workers might be getting vaccinated soon.

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The pandemic's toll on mental health should not be a security-clearance disqualifier, says national security official

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 12:05:59 -0000

DHS adds clarity to how agencies can secure remote workers. Fewer vendors filed protests over contracts with GAO. And the federal government will not be shutting down anytime soon.

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NASA lays out list of 2020 accomplishments, includes pitching in during the pandemic

Fri, 25 Dec 2020 16:38:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA has made it's list of major accomplishments this year.

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Over 70 West Point cadets accused of cheating

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 14:21:32 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more than 70 cadets training at West Point have been accused of cheating on a math exam that was being taken online due to COVID protocols.

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IG: Education had decent reopening plans for allowing employees back

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:37:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Education Department's inspector general says the agency developed a decent enough reopening plan for its employees during the pandemic.

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Congresswoman wants to make sure Trump administration preserves records

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 15:46:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) wants to make sure President Trump doesn't dispose of any vital presidential records on his way out the door.

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One of the government's leading cybersecurity experts weighs in on SolarWinds breach

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 15:36:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, National Institute of Standards and Technology Fellow Ron Ross has advice for officials knocked off their feet by the recent governmentwide cyber attacks.

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President-elect Biden reacts to SolarWinds breach

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 15:16:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President-elect Joe Biden begins to set expectations for how his administration will handle cybersecurity.

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Veterans service organizations call on President Trump to fire VA Secretary

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 15:47:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the big-six veterans service organizations are calling on President Trump to immediately fire his VA secretary.

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Senators want answers regarding SolarWinds cyber attack

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 14:27:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan group of six Senators want the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to submit a report to Congress about the impact of the SolarWinds cyber attack on agencies.

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Federal robocallers must now have consent to drop you a line

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 15:19:35 -0000

The FCC rules that government contractors must have consent before robocalling. The president is strengthening the leadership at the Postal Service. And the Space Force has its first group of enlistees complete Basic Training.

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Federal robocallers must now have consent to drop you a line

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 12:23:31 -0000

The FCC rules that government contractors must have consent before robocalling. The president is strengthening the leadership at the Postal Service. And the first Space Force 7 finish Basic Training.

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POTUS Executive Order on employee firings, gives birth to OPM guide

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 13:16:26 -0000

OPM has issued a guide on the President's executive order on employee firings. The nation’s largest veterans organization says the VA chief needs to go. And three companies have won a spot on a $496 million Defense Department R & D contract.

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Veterans groups 'surprised' by Biden's VA pick

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 16:03:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, veterans service organizations and others have mixed reactions to President-elect Biden's pick to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs.

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FAR Council to implement new rule regarding reverse auctions

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 16:38:06 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, five years after the Office of Federal Procurement Policy issued guidance on reverse auctions, the Federal Acquisition Regulations Council is finally implementing it.

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Biden facing some pushback for SecDef pick

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 16:01:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee has questions about his fellow Democrat’s choice to lead the Pentagon.

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NDAA includes more Congressional oversight of OTAs

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 13:19:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congress wants more transparency about the use of Other Transaction Authority in Defense spending.

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Trump fires defense advisers and replaces them with Lewandowski and Bossie

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 13:54:54 -0000

Firings at the Defense Business Board; A former general is out, but bring Corey Lewendowski is in. The Air Force is considering giving career and life coaching to its future leaders. And federal employees will be allowed to carry over more unused vacation time...….maybe.

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GAO reports that there's still an inexplicable pay gap between men and women

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 14:04:46 -0000

The Federal pay gap between men and woman has narrowed...but it's still there. Two congressmen want to stop government funding that pays for experiments on house cats. And the Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff says America needs a bigger Navy.

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Report: 1 in 5 FEMA employees say they've experienced harassment on the job

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:25:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an employee survey the RAND Corporation conducted on FEMA's behalf shows some disturbing trends.

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Federal judge denies government's request to dismiss suit over 2019 shutdown pay

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 13:54:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federal court has denied the government's request to dismiss a class action suit over the partial government shutdown that ended in January of 2019.

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IG: EPA pandemic guidance for employees differed by location

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 15:31:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, reentry plans for Environmental Protection Agency employees over the summer varied widely depending across the country.

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Pandemic Response Accountability Committee flags gaps in federal data sources

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 15:27:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a report by the MITRE Corporation found 16 key concerns with the quality and accuracy of data available to the PRAC.

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DLA not letting pandemic stop it from sending warfighting troops Thanksgiving meals

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 15:59:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Logistics Agency said it's making sure all warfighters have a home-cooked meal with all the trimmings this holiday.

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Senators want know what VA has plan for Coronavirus vaccine distribution

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 15:06:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of Senate Democrats want to know how the Department of Veterans Affairs is planning to distribute a COVID-19 vaccine to veterans and employees.

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Pentagon cyber leader warns more needs to be done to make U.S. networks cyber resilient

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 15:23:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Defense's head of cyber policy is warning that the Pentagon's cyber force is still not enough to protect the U.S. and its allies

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Pentagon asking more employees to work from home over coronavirus concerns

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:11:43 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more Pentagon employees are being told to telework because of an uptick in coronavirus infections in the National Capital Region.

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Democratic lawmakers want answers from GSA administrator on Biden transition

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 15:47:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, four Democrat House lawmakers and 41 Democrat senators are demanding GSA Administrator Emily Murphy brief them on her rationale for not ascertaining the election results.

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Forts named after Confederate Generals could be sticking point for NDAA

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 15:39:35 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the 2021 defense authorization bill is hitting the home stretch, but this year seems a little more hamstrung than others.

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President Trump names new Federal CIO

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 13:10:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Donald Trump yesterday said he plans to name Basil Parker as the new federal chief information officer.

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House Dems want to prevent "Midnight Regulations" from Trump administration

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 15:13:57 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top Democrats on the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees warn the Trump administration not to fast-track agency regulations that are pending between now and Inauguration Day.

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Aircraft and COVID Carrier, sails and spreads, while half the sailors show no symptoms

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:21:20 -0000

A new study confirms that COVID-19 can spread, big time, asymptomatically. The U.S. Postal Service lost billions of dollars in Fiscal 2020. And a federal judge rules that Chad Wolf was never legally appointed.

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Congressmen urge Biden not to appoint defense-industry pros to Pentagon jobs

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 13:39:21 -0000

Looks like they might be cleaning house at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency......Military retirees get less of a cost-of-living-adjustment increase than in previous years.....And Senator Marco Rubio wants the SBA to look into billions of dollars in loan fraud.

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Biden transition team encounters thick fog on diversity at Foggy Bottom

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 14:12:04 -0000

- A top Biden transition-team member encounters bad climate on diversity at Foggy Bottom. Some federal workers might be getting a pay raise...others a pay freeze. And one House caucus, in the space space, wants to be a force for bipartisanship.

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OPM reminds agencies of their obligations to their employees, who are reservists

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 13:45:01 -0000

- On this Veterans Day, OPM reminds agencies of their obligations to federal employees, who are called to active-duty military service... - A possible Air Force general's court martial trial, would be an American first... - And as Biden adds to his transition team, Trump sees subtraction in his Administration.

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Trump takes incoming fire for giving Esper the boot

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 14:00:48 -0000

- The Navy and Marine Corps hit the pause button on diversity and inclusion training. - Six former Homeland Security Secretaries say there are too many cooks in the DHS kitchen - And the VA has deployed a new electronic record-keeping tool

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Post-election firings and resignations have begun

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 13:52:38 -0000

-Federal agencies are starting to experience firings and resignations... -DoD is walking the walk, to the tune of nearly $10 Billion dollars in savings... - And federal retirees will pay more next year for Medicare Part B...

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SBA is ordered to release the names of all recipients of COVID-19-related loans

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 14:00:22 -0000

- A multibillion dollar contract has been awarded to build nuclear-missile submarines. - An IG report expresses concern with OPM's cybersecurity efforts. - And SBA is ordered to release the names of all virus-related loans.

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OSC: Election isn't settled but feds can wear political attire again

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 13:49:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Special Counsel issued a post-election Hatch Act advisory. The voting is over, so the OSC says it's ok to sport hats or T-shirts or to display pictures while you're on duty.

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With another wave of COVID-19 cases, House Democrats want to know how White House plans to keep feds safe

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 13:08:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Democrats on the House Ways and Means Committee want to know how the Office of Personnel Management is keeping federal employees safe during another COVID-19 wave.

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Federal employees with kids stuck at home can get some educational help

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 15:45:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund has teamed up with Tutor.com, to offer free academic tutoring for kids in K-12.

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Pentagon IG plans to investigate how DOD handles diversity and inclusion issues

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 16:13:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department Inspector General plans to undertake a new investigation into how the Pentagon handles issues like diversity and inclusion.

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SBA IG raises alarm about disaster loans during coronavirus pandemic

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 13:46:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Small Business Administration’s inspector general raises red flags over 78 billion dollars in Economic Injury Disaster Loans during the coronavirus pandemic.

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CBP has put money towards catching forced labor items, now it needs manpower

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:20:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, while the Homeland Security Department dedicated more resources to stopping goods made by forced labor from entering the country, it still needs to address its workforce needs for the mission.

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Legislators look to make Oversight.gov a permanent fixture

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 12:44:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, he Oversight.gov Authorization Act would formally require the upkeep of the website where users can access all public reports released by agency IGs.

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Veterans group teaming up with DHS to fight foreign election interference

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 12:49:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Vietnam Veterans of America and DHS’s Cybersecurity and Information Security Agency now say they’re trying to stop disinformation campaigns targeted military and veteran communities.

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Agencies will have some say in what positions will be classified in new schedule

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 13:39:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management is out with preliminary guidance on the president's recent executive order.

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You may soon be able to process your fingerprints at your local post office

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 13:06:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service is working with the FBI to provide fingerprinting services at more than 100 post offices across the country.

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Former top EPA official turned whistleblower is suing the agency for retaliation

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 13:05:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former top political aide to ex-EPA administrator Scott Pruitt claims EPA violated his free speech and due process rights by removing him after he raised concerns about Pruitt's excessive spending and mismanagement.

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Pentagon IG looking into how Defense Department spent coronavirus relief funds

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 11:18:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the inspector general plans to begin a probe this month, looking into whether DoD’s CARES Act spending complied with the law.

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Army getting some help keeping their troops in shape

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 13:51:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army is embedding nutritionists, physical fitness experts and coaches into active duty brigades in hopes of increasing performance and cutting down on injuries.

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Legislators hope to secure higher COLA for federal retirees

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 12:52:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two House Democrats are introducing their own legislation that would give retirees a higher cost-of-living adjustment next year.

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USPS weathering the storm through 2020 election

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 12:33:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service reports an uptick in mail volume a few weeks ahead of Election Day, but on-time delivery is also on the rise.

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Federal executives and workers paint bleak picture of federal workforce

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 13:19:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Partnership for Public Service is sounding alarm bells over the state of the federal workforce ahead of the upcoming presidential election.

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Congressmen wondering why VA Secretary taking so many trips to battleground states

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 13:13:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, top Democrats on the House and Senate VA Committees say Secretary Robert Wilkie is using government time and taxpayer money to take politically motivated trips to states key to the upcoming presidential and Senate races.

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House members wondering why Commerce Dept. isn't playing bigger role in creating national 5G network

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 13:27:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee have questions for the Commerce Department regarding it's lack of standing in owning and operating a national 5G network

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Industry pushback now to White House order on diversity and inclusion training

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 13:56:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 11 industry associations are calling on the Trump administration to rescind the executive order on diversity and training.

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USDA Secretary in hot water for talking politics on a work trip

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 13:39:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a cabinet secretary gets a bill and a slap on the wrist for a recent Hatch Act violation

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Marine Corps' second in command comes down with coronavirus

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 12:54:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Marines Corps' number two officer has tested positive for COVID-19.

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OPM looks to change when it owes back-pay from personnel disputes

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 13:14:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management wants to change how and when federal employees might receive back pay for an unjustified or unwarranted personnel action.

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Former VP Joe Biden lays out plan for USPS, should he be elected

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 13:39:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, former Vice President Joe Biden outlines what he’d do as president for the Postal Service.

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House members now pushing for way to let feds opt-out of payroll tax deferral

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 11:04:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congress makes another push to allow federal employees and military members to opt-out of the president's payroll tax deferral.

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Agencies and contractors get more time to purge Chinese-made telecommunications gear from supply chains

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 11:36:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence has extended waivers for agencies requesting more time to excise that gear from their networks.

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DHS may finally get a permanent secretary

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 12:08:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a key Senate committee advanced Chad Wolf's nomination to be permanent homeland security secretary.

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Last day of FY 2020, Senate expected to send through CR to the President

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 11:07:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, today is the last day of fiscal 2020 and the Senate is expected to move the continuing resolution forward to the President's desk.

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GAO delivers a tough review of the VA's Community Care Program

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 10:57:02 -0000

- The GAO offers a stark assessment of the V-A's community care program - Political appointees will now have a major role in diversity training - And Army officials are trying to figure out why suicides are up 30%

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Trump administration provides guidance for recent federal hiring EO

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 10:28:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies have a little more guidance now on how they're supposed to implement the president's recent federal hiring executive order.

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VA sees slight drop in facilities with staffing shortages

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 10:38:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, medical centers at the Department of Veterans Affairs see a slight improvement in staffing shortages over the last year.

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Pentagon easing pandemic travel restrictions

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 11:30:08 -0000

This week’s update from the Pentagon shows just over half of the military’s worldwide installations are now in the “green” category – meaning servicemembers can move to and from those bases without special permission.

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Agencies get deadline for submitting data on funds going to Seattle, Portland, NYC, and D.C.

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 11:25:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget issued guidance that details how the administration will implement a presidential memo to withhold funds from states that the White House says are permitting anarchy, violence, and destruction.

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GAO pleading with agencies to follow recommendations to improve pandemic response

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 11:12:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Comptroller General Gene Dodaro implores agencies and Congress to implement what he called 16 concrete recommendations immediately to significantly improve the nation’s response to the current pandemic.

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Senators want NRA Foundation out of the Combined Federal Campaign

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 13:13:13 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of Democratic senators want to remove the National Rifle Association Foundation from the list of approved charities on the Combined Federal Campaign.

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$4 million fraud and bribery scheme gets former defense contractor 42-month prison sentence

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 11:09:44 -0000

A former defense contractor is sentenced to prison for taking kickbacks. The Census Bureau’s IT infrastructure has performed better than officials expected. And the Air Force improves its policy for nursing mothers to improve retention.

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On-time mail delivery still not performing at pre-Dejoy level

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 12:31:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, on-time mail delivery still hasn’t fully recovered from operational changes made nearly two months ago by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.

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Bill tasking agencies with publishing budget requests passes House

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 11:25:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Justification Act requires agencies to post budget request documents to a single website each year.

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EPA takes another step to fulfill transparency EO

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 11:13:17 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a final rule from the Environmental Protection Agency gives the public a platform to request changes or removal of agency guidance documents.

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Survey finds feds spent nearly 500 million hours on low-value work a year

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 13:19:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a survey from the General Services Administration and Office of Personnel Management employees spend an average of 13% a week on work they consider to be low-value.

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Federal managers voice their opposition to White House cancellation of race training

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 13:16:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, senior executives and federal managers have some harsh criticism for the Office of Management and Budget's recent directive on race training.

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Member of Congress push to eliminate 'mandatory' from the payroll tax deferral policy

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 08:56:06 -0000

The mandatory and controversial payroll tax deferral policy has some in Congress trying to end the "mandatory" part. The president's pick to run OPM, says he has led and will lead in a non-partisan fashion. And the Postal Service gets the go-ahead to raise commercial package rates.

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POTUS pick to lead OPM accused of 'lacking commitment to federal merit system'

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 12:05:30 -0000

The president's latest pick to lead the Office of Personnel Management comes under fire, one of DC's industry experts is leaving his high-profile post, and a congressional committee is launching an investigation into recent tragedies at Ft. Hood, Texas.

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Trump directs OMB to have federal agencies stop 'divisive, un-American propaganda training sessions.'

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 11:18:49 -0000

POTUS directs all agencies to stop all training on critical race theory or white privilege, OMB is reminding agencies they're required to prepare for a presidential transition and OPM wants to move away from a learning management system to a learning ecosystem.

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Informal deal reached to avert government shutdown

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 13:47:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, there is now an informal deal in place to avoid a potential government shutdown at the end of the month.

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Defense Department opens up five medical facilities for coronavirus vaccine trials

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 12:45:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon has picked five of its health care facilities to help coordinate stage three clinical trials for a potential coronavirus vaccine.

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VA has a slew of appointments to still make up from the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 13:37:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two million appointments canceled during the initial wave of the coronavirus pandemic still need rescheduling at the Veterans Health Administration.

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Some agencies do a better job looking into employees playing hooky

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 13:05:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says not all agencies have been tracking time and attendance fraud consistently.

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House Majority Leader prepares lawmakers for continuing resolution

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 13:19:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) tells his colleagues what may seem inevitable: a continuing resolution is the likely outcome ahead of the upcoming government funding deadline.

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NIH establishing new organizations to track emerging diseases around the world

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 11:59:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases with NIH created a network of new organizations to provide early warnings of emerging diseases wherever they occur.

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Up for grabs: A $12 billion, 10-Year Defense Department IT contract

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 13:30:47 -0000

The Defense Information Systems Agency plans to release a draft solicitation for what it estimates will be an $11.7 billion dollar contract over the next ten years. It’s called Defense Enclave Services, and much like the controversial JEDI contract, DISA plans to use a single-vendor ID/IQ approach. The main purpose is to build a shared I-T network for the DoD agencies and field activities outside the military services – commonly called the Fourth Estate.

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Official word on the Hatch Act: It does not apply to POTUS or the VEEP.

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 10:16:02 -0000

Special Counsel Henry Kerner, in a statement, says the Hatch Act expressly does not apply to the President or Vice President and that only the Justice Department can advise on criminal provisions from the Hatch Act. He adds the Rose Garden and West Lawn of the White House are Hatch Act free zones, so feds attending events there aren't necessarily violators.

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Pandemic-fueled TSP participants are withdrawing and borrowing thousands of dollars

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 12:11:31 -0000

More than 30,000 TSP participants have taken money out of their Thrift Savings Plans. Over 9,100 have taken a loan, while nearly 1,600 have taken a special CARES Act loan.

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Pandemic Victims: FDIC's early retirement & buyout offers

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 12:02:44 -0000

The early retirement and buyout offers the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation made to its employees back in March are off the table. F-D-I-C made the offer to 20 percent of its workforce in early March, but that offer was withdrawn less than two weeks later, as the pandemic hit its stride.

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More members of Congress are calling on USCIS to delay looming end-of-the-month furloughs

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 11:41:30 -0000

More members of Congress are calling on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to delay upcoming employee furloughs at the end of the month. Top Democrats on the House Homeland Security Committee have written to USCIS Deputy Policy Director Joseph Edlow to prevent job disruption for over 13,000 employees.

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Census Bureau enumerators just not adding up

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 11:48:41 -0000

The Census Bureau has little more than a month until it wraps up 2020 field operations, but it never came close to hiring the number of enumerators officials said were needed to complete the job.

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Most AFGE members don't feel it's safe to return to the office

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 12:05:45 -0000

A majority of American Federation of Government Employees members say they're not ready yet to return to work at their offices. A resounding 79% of A-F-G-E members still working from home say they don't feel safe to return to the workplace.

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Senator is hoping USCIS can avoid furloughs

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 13:04:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee is calling for another delay to employee furloughs at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

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AFGE hoping to save Pentagon employees' right to unionize

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 13:43:18 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the America Federation of Government Employees is making a final push to protect Defense Department employees’ right to unionize.

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USCIS employees may still face furloughs

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 13:44:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the union representing USCIS employees is disappointed Congress left town for August recess before passing emergency funding for the agency.

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ODNI allowing agencies to delay implementing new rule banning Chinese telecom equipment

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 10:29:39 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal contractors and contracting officers apparently have some relief from the Section 8-8-9 rule that's got the federal I-T world in an uproar.

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Congressional regulators voice concerns about Postal Service delivery standards

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:26:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more than 130 House members tell the Postal Service they’re concerned with mail delivery standards ahead of the November election.

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Many VA employees say they've faced racism on the job

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 13:10:35 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Nearly 78% of bargaining unit employees say they've experienced racism while working at the Veterans Affairs Department.

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OPM sheds a little more light on new paid parental leave for federal employees

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 13:10:46 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees are learning a little more about the paid parental leave program.

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Lawmakers hope to secure more funding for the National Institutes of Health's coronavirus efforts

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 11:25:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan group of senators is pushing for more funding for the National Institutes of Health.

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GAO: Time to update the CFO Act

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 11:18:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 30 years after the passage of the CFO Act, the Government Accountability Office tells Congress it has some work to do.

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EPA settles dispute with Utah over Gold King Mine spill

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 11:56:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Environmental Protection Agency has agreed to pay the state of Utah to resolve claims stemming form the Gold King Mine spill back in 2015.

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House bill calls for major increases in federal whistleblower protections

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 11:10:44 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats make a significant push to improve whistleblower protection rights for federal employees.

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White House aims to limit how much foreign labor federal contractors can use

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 11:48:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new executive order from the White House calls on agencies to examine contractors' use of foreign workers.

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White House lays out it's issues with the House's mini-bus spending bill

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 12:19:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House threatens to veto the House's mini bus to fund a large amount of agencies.

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Federal employees may have voice in agency reopening efforts if Senate bill passes

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 09:32:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees may be getting a stronger voice in what it means to return to the office during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Agencies may not have gotten the best deals a good amount of Coronavirus-related contracts

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 13:35:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies have spent almost $18 billion on goods and services in response to the Coronavirus pandemic from March to June, and 47% of that was not competed among vendors.

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Washington attorney says hundreds of thousands of federal employees are potential plaintiffs in this class action suit

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 13:36:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a D.C. law firm is notifying federal employees they may be entitled to financial compensation for being exposed to COVID-19 while at work.

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Thousands of federal employees apply for workers' compensation due to Coronavirus

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 12:49:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, about 4,000 federal employees have filed workers compensation claims with the Labor Department due to COVID-19.

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PRAC lays out just how it plans to monitor coronavirus stimulus funds

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 10:59:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee outlines its roadmap for oversight over the next five years.

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AFGE renews legal effort to secure hazard pay for frontline federal employees

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 13:04:37 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the American Federation of Government Employees is making a renewed push in court to score hazard pay for federal employees working on the frontlines of the pandemic.

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Another major government conference gets cancelled due to coronavirus

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 12:06:22 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, COVID-19 has forced the cancellation of yet another government conference – this time, the largest in the country.

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Senate and House Dems blast FEMA for unfilled positions

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 12:50:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bicameral group of Democrats say top leadership vacancies at the Federal Emergency Management Agency are unacceptable.

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Over 20k military members have now been diagnosed with coronavirus

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 12:57:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, nearly 22,000 service members have now been diagnosed with coronavirus after this week saw a more than 20 percent jump in infections.

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GSA puts out guide for navigating new rules banning Chinese telecoms equipment

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 13:15:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration publishes a colorful guide to a complicated issue -- the ban on Chinese telecommunications gear.

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Senate Democrats want to secure hazard pay for frontline VA health workers

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 13:08:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senators say they're still fielding complaints from VA health employees who say they don't have enough support to safely continue working during the pandemic.

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Defense Sec. bans photographs being used when considering promotions

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 13:27:34 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Defense Secretary Mark Esper bans photographs from being used in the process to promote officers and enlisted service members.

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Michagan senator asks 24 agencies for deep details on their reopening plans

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:44:47 -0000

The top Democrat on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee says he wants more details on agency reopening plans. Michigan Senator Gary Peters wrote to the heads of 24 agencies asking for their plans. He wants to know how agencies are going to provide masks and other protective equipment for employees, how they're modifying office space to comply with social distancing guidelines, and how they're informing employees of positive coronavirus cases.

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How some NARA employees have been staying busy during the pandemic

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 10:58:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, National Archives and Records Administration employees have spent the pandemic making Black history records more accessible to the public.

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As coronavirus cases increase at CBP, TSA, Congressional overseers want to know how DHS is keeping employees safe

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 13:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Homeland Security Committee chairman Bennie Thompson (D-MS) wants to know what DHS is doing to keep all of its employees safe.

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Senators question role the pandemic played in financial problems at USCIS

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 14:01:35 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two senators doubt the pandemic is the real reason behind the budget issues at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

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Census data shows how recession hurt veterans

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 13:57:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new Census data analysis shows, the recession of 2008 and 2009 hit one segment of the population particularly hard.

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Environmental Protection Agency wants to help cities keep their transit systems clean

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 12:13:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the EPA has teamed up with the New York and Los Angeles mass transit systems to learn more about how to disinfect them.

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Treasury Dept. reverses course, will allow PRAC to oversee all CARES Act spending

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 11:49:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin tells the House Oversight and Reform Committee the law allows inspectors general on the committee to review spending under the Paycheck Protection Program, and other funds previously in question.

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IG takes a close look at EPA's reopening plans

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 10:39:08 -0000

The EPA Office of Inspector General says its reopening review is part of its broader effort to study the pandemic's impact on the EPA and its operations. Many EPA members of the American Federation of Government Employees say they feel uncomfortable with returning to the office.

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House Democrats demand transcripts of Trump administration being told they can't legally eliminate OPM

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 13:53:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Two Democratic regulators are requesting transcripts from a conference call involving of several members of the Trump administration, regarding the elimination of the Office of Personnel Management.

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The Space Force is taking shape and finalizing its organizational structure

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 11:46:49 -0000

The SPACE FORCE: three echelons of command, with lesser structures called, "deltas." The deltas are like the wings or groups of the Air Force and are run by colonels.

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Time nears for federal contractors to, by law, dump two Chinese companies

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 13:13:06 -0000

Federal contractors have about six weeks to meet a provision in the 2019 Defense authorization bill that says they are not using any equipment from Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE in their supply chains. And any hope that deadline may be moved, decreased yesterday when the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau formally designated Huawei and ZTE as national security threats.

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New mechanism for VA to screen patients, employees for coronavirus

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 11:45:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs has a new digital tool to help screen veterans, employees and other visitors for coronavirus.

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After pandemic delay, the FEVS are on their way back

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 12:03:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management will start sending the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey to all federal employees in July.

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13,000 jobs in jeopardy at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 12:20:03 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration is reminding Congress of budget challenges at US Citizenship and Immigration Services.

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Federal employees pay increase is literally a gift

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 12:36:19 -0000

Federal employees are getting an inflation increase when it comes to accepting non-sponsored gifts at widely-attended events and those under the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act. The Office of Government Ethics raised the thresholds to $415 from $390 over a three-year period. The final rule raises the dollar thresholds for the first time since May 2017.

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Thousands impacted, as COVID-19 takes its toll on veterans, as well as VA staff

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 13:54:31 -0000

The Department of Veterans Affairs is dealing with a cumulative total of over 19,000 corona virus cases, with 2,285 veterans being treated today. More than 200 VA health professionals have active cases, with nearly 1,800 VA additional VA employees having already recovered from COVID-19. And there have been 27 deaths of VA employees due to coronavirus.

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Pandemic could give chance to modernize federal workforce

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 13:27:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senior Executives Association is urging the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to take action this year on hiring reforms and other recommendations to modernize the federal workforce.

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A new proposal to dissolve some federal agencies

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 13:17:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new bill is introduced to set up a temporary federal commission to propose recommendations for eliminating certain agencies.

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Another senior DOD official stepping down

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 13:18:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, another senior pentagon official is stepping down for what appear to be political reasons.

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PRAC points out teleworking difficulties in analysis of agencies' coronavirus response

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 13:19:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, telework limitations rank high up on the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee’s list of federal agency challenges during the pandemic.

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A casualty of Ukraine military-aid scandal, the Pentagon's top financial official to resign

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 15:20:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Elaine McCusker, DoD’s acting comptroller and chief financial officer, will step down on June 26. She was nominated by President Trump for a permanent position, but it was revoked over reported disagreements about Ukraine.

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State Dept. gets kudos from the Senate for coronavirus response

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 13:31:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate applauds the State Department for bringing more than 100-thousand Americans home during the coronavirus pandemic.

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IRS discontinuing incentive payments for employees who go to the office during the pandemic

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 13:19:49 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the IRS will no longer be giving employees 10-25% pay increase for going into the office during the coronavirus pandemic.

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VA says its now closer to offer more coronavirus testing to its employees

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 11:28:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs officials tell Congress they're in the process of securing enough materials to test agency employees.

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Ways to ensure the federal IT workforce of the future

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 13:18:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Chief Information Officers Council says government needs a new pay and personnel system to better recruit and compensate the future federal IT workforce.

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MSPB extending mandatory telework until next month

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 10:27:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, while many agencies are setting reopening dates in early to mid-June to bring an initial wave of employees back to the office, the Merit Systems Protection Board is waiting until the end of June.

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FEMA prepared for upcoming hurricane season thanks to pandemic response

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 12:48:04 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a possible silver lining of the coronavirus pandemic, FEMA has a headstart as the 2020 hurricane season officially gets underway.

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As HASC begins work on 2021 NDAA, unions hope it will include protections for defense workers

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:12:50 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, one of the biggest federal employee unions is asking the House Armed Services Committee for protection.

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Senator holding up Trump nominations until he gets answers on fired IG's

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 13:34:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate Whistleblower Protection Caucus Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) is putting a hold on two Trump administration nominations until the White House sheds more light on the recent firing of two inspectors general.

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IG: Telework hasn't hampered HUD operations

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 13:12:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Housing and Urban Development's inspector general says the agency was generally well prepared for the change to mandatory telework.

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OPM IG has his virtual day in the Senate

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 13:12:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the president's nominee to be the Office of Personnel Management inspector general got some face time before the Senate.

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TIGTA: IRS failed to investigate 370,000 high income households for not filing taxes

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 12:46:53 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an IRS watchdog finds serious gaps in the agency’s enforcement of high-income households that haven’t filed or paid their taxes.

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USPS lays out suggestions on vote-by-mail services for local governments

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 13:22:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with vote-by-mail services in high demand, the Postal Service sets recommendations for state and local governments to make sure each ballot gets counted.

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TSA expected to soon offer early retirement to several workers

Fri, 29 May 2020 12:56:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Transportation Security Administration soon will offer early retirements to employees across the agency.

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Government cyber incidents continue a downward trend

Thu, 28 May 2020 13:26:21 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the number of cybersecurity incidents across government is down for a second straight year.

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With above average hurricane season possible, lawmakers want to make sure the Coast Guard is ready

Wed, 27 May 2020 13:18:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers ask Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Karl Schultz asking eight questions about how the coronavirus is impacting the service.

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House leaders look to add lay of protection for inspectors general

Tue, 26 May 2020 12:43:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the IG Independence Act would limit the grounds a president has to remove an inspector general.

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Veterans get new resource for coronavirus information

Mon, 25 May 2020 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new chatbot from the Veterans Affairs Department aims to help veterans with any coronavirus questions they may have.

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Senate Democrats want oversight hearing on agencies' coronavirus response

Fri, 22 May 2020 13:07:17 -0000

In todays' Federal Newscast, Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee worry the panel is failing to hold federal agencies accountable for their response to the coronavirus.

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Senate bill looks to make sure Coronavirus spending watchdog can hit the ground running

Thu, 21 May 2020 13:17:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan bill in the Senate would fast-track hiring staff to work for the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery, who’s now one step away from confirmation.

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More women are joining the military but they're not sticking around long enough to make it a career

Wed, 20 May 2020 12:13:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the military has made some gains in recruiting women over the past 15 years. But they’re still much less likely to serve for a full career than men are.

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Should Social Security accept electronic signatures

Tue, 19 May 2020 12:46:00 -0000

The National Federation of the Blind and four individual plaintiffs file a lawsuit in federal court against the Social Security Administration for its refusal to accept digital signatures.

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TSP board details coronavirus loan and withdrawl stipulations

Mon, 18 May 2020 13:10:47 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Thrift Savings Plan has a few more details on loan and withdrawal relief options that participants can take during the coronavirus pandemic.

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GSA releases tool for monitoring agency spending to contractors

Fri, 15 May 2020 13:42:28 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration makes its governmentwide category management awards exploration tool publicly available.

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VA facilities up capacity amid coronavirus pandemic

Thu, 14 May 2020 12:39:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, patient capacity at Veterans Affairs medical facilities is up within the last month.

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State Dept. aims to stop corruption amid coronavirus confusion

Wed, 13 May 2020 12:15:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the State Department offers grant funding for organizations with ideas on stopping corruption connected to the pandemic.

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DOD IG examining how infectious diseases spread on ships

Tue, 12 May 2020 12:59:10 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon’s inspector general has launched its own review into the Navy’s handling of coronavirus aboard its ships.

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Members of Congress worried about coronavirus stimulus checks going to dead people

Mon, 11 May 2020 13:31:26 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, dead people are getting coronavirus stimulus payments, and a bipartisan group of lawmakers asks the Treasury Department, IRS and Social Security Administration what they can do to stop it.

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Veterans Affairs lays out how it will start to reopen facilities

Fri, 08 May 2020 12:38:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs has a new plan to eventually resume normal operations for its hospitals, cemeteries and benefits offices.

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It's not just privatized military houses with issues

Thu, 07 May 2020 12:39:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department has taken plenty of heat for health and safety problems in its privatized housing programs, but there are plenty of issues in government-owned housing too.

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Members of Congress look to secure hazard pay and extra leave for frontline federal employees

Wed, 06 May 2020 12:13:06 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House and Senate lawmakers are using legislation and pressuring the White House to obtain hazard pay and extra leave capabilities for federal employees who are continuing to work during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Former procurement director for PBGC admits to taking bribes

Tue, 05 May 2020 12:54:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department won guilty pleas from the former director of procurement for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation and the president and CEO of a government contracting firm for bribery.

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Virginia Congressmen want more telework flexibilities, regardless of pandemic

Mon, 04 May 2020 13:12:58 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three Virginia Democrats are looking for more telework flexibilities ahead of upcoming construction on Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority lines this summer.

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The Postal Service now has a whole caucus to go to bat for it

Fri, 01 May 2020 13:04:07 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan coalition in the House sees public support for the Postal Service as leverage to give the agency emergency funding.

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Website many have been relying on for coronavirus stats getting federal help

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 14:04:38 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the world's favorite web site right now is about to get a fresh chunk of federal grant money.

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Senate Democrats to OPM: More guidance for agencies please

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 13:29:25 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Democrats on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee want to know how the Office of Personnel Management is guiding and supporting the federal workforce during the pandemic.

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NTEU lays out standards for calling federal employees back to offices

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:22:52 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as agencies are developing their plans to reopen offices, the National Treasury Employees Union releases its own conditions.

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Congressional Democrats trying to secure hazard pay for frontline federal workers

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:42:11 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats are eying hazard pay for frontline federal employees for the next emergency coronavirus package.

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After Trump organization asks for rent reduction, members of Congress have questions for GSA

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 13:32:19 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House and Senate Democrats push back on reports that the Trump Organization seeks to reduce its rent on the Trump Hotel in D.C. during the pandemic.

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Peace Corps volunteers sent home early due to pandemic will get financial aid from agency

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 12:42:31 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Peace Corps Director Jody Olsen says the volunteers will receive a wellness stipend to help cover costs associated with the evacuations, including health care.

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Congress trying to figure out how to operate in midst of coronavirus pandemic

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 12:00:08 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate looks to shore up its cyber defenses, and House leaders are weighing the options to have members cast votes away from Captol Hill.

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USPS sets up coronavirus supplies command center

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 12:58:33 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a supplies command center has been established by the Postal Service, to help its employees get masks, gloves, hand sanitizer and other coronavirus supplies.

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Federal, state, and local governments begin preparations for workers to return to the office

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 12:30:20 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies are starting to make some initial preparations for employees to return to the office.

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Large increase in military members diagnosed with COVID-19

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 13:59:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 403 new troops were diagnosed with COVID-19 in one day.

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IRS sees surge of visitors to site that tracks coronavirus stimulus payments

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 12:48:56 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the agency says nearly 10 million taxpayers checked on the status of their stimulus payment on the Get My Payment tool.

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Essential federal employees on the frontlines of coronavirus response could get premium pay bumps

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:12:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management says agencies can lift the usual limits on premium pay and set higher annual premium pay caps for specific employees.

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Longer tax-filing season means more fake tax returns for the IRS

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 12:55:55 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the longer tax-filing season means more fake tax returns for the IRS.

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Federal agencies on the watch for fraud in coronavirus response

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 12:33:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as more assets and money are being distributed for coronavirus response, there are those looking to take advantage of the current situation.

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Pilots will still get incentive payments, even if they're grounded during the pandemic

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 12:33:24 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon says servicemembers who get special incentive payments for hazardous assignments like piloting, diving and parachuting can still get their bonuses – even if the pandemic is stopping them from carrying out those missions.

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The number of federal employees diagnosed with COVID-19 is on the rise

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 13:45:42 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, coronavirus cases among federal employees are piling up across the country.

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2020 Census count keeps on moving despite pandemic

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 13:04:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the 2020 census soldiers on despite delays in field operations caused by the coronavirus.

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Federal employees get more protection from age discrimination

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 13:29:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Supreme Court ruling finds federal employees have a lower bar to prove age discrimination in personnel actions, compared with the private sector.

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Anyone on DoD property will need to wear a mask

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 12:43:29 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Defense Secretary Mark Esper is directing that anyone on DoD property wear a cloth mask if they can’t consistently keep a six-foot social distance from other people.

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Hospitals get extra equipment from an unlikely agency

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 14:14:09 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, four preservation and conservation specialists at the National Archives and Records Administration did some quick thinking and realized the equipment they use to deal with records damaged by floods, fires, or mold could help doctors and nurses fighting the coronavirus.

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Sexual harassment claims at federal workplaces on the rise

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 12:55:12 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is out with a new report detailing sexual harassment in the federal workplace.

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Three agencies team up to leverage 3D printing to fight coronavirus

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:38:02 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three federal agencies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together in using 3D printing technology to build devices and objects used to treat coronavirus.

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Government appoints Pentagon investigator to guard against abuse of coronavirus money

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 13:02:05 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon’s inspector general will take the lead in trying to head off waste, fraud and abuse in the newly-passed coronavirus spending package.

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As small federal contractors start to feel the pinch, Pentagon looks to help keep them afloat

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 13:25:54 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, small business government contractors already are feeling the impact of the government slowdown because of the coronavirus. So the Pentagon is adjusting some contracts to help get companies some much needed cash.

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Military cases of coronavirus now higher than the civilian rate

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 12:26:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department saw cases in the services more than double since Monday.

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Pentagon sets up task force for medical supply requests

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 13:10:23 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department gets so many requests for medical equipment, it set up a special task force just to deal with them.

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Military medical facilities take steps to get more doctors on the front line of coronavirus pandemic

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:16:40 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, military medical facilities are postponing all elective surgeries, invasive procedures and dental procedures due to the response to coronavirus.

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More telework guidance could be on the way

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 12:57:01 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a huddle between agencies may yield new cybersecurity guidance for teleworking federal employees.

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Agencies get more hiring flexibilities to help with coronavirus response

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 12:38:51 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management granting agencies new authorities to help in their response to the coronavirus pandemic.

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Pressure mounting for White House to address contractor concerns during coronavirus pandemic

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 12:58:59 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal contractor associations wrote separate letters to the White House and lawmakers asking for more guidance for how industry should expect to work during the effort to contain the spread of COVID-19.

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Members of Congress ask again for mandatory telework for agencies

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 12:44:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over 60 House members want the president to order mandatory telework for all eligible federal employees and contractors.

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NIST provides suggestions for keeping sensitive virtual meetings secure

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 11:41:15 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with more federal employees working from home due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the National Institute of Standards and Technology gives advice on how to keep virtual meetings secure.

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Members of Congress demand more action to protect federal workers

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 12:46:45 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over a quarter of the Senate is calling on President Trump to sign an executive order mandating telework for all eligible federal employees. 27 Senate Democrats say Trump needs to give clear direction, not general guidance.

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OPM asks federal health insurance providers to make adjustments to prepare for coronavirus

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 12:01:14 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management wants federal health insurance providers to make sure they're ready for COVID-19.

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Spreading false information about 2020 Census could land you in jail if new bill becomes law

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 12:37:41 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new bill from House Democrats calls for severe punishments for knowingly spreading false news to discourage participation in the 2020 Census count.

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Congressional worries of coronavirus' effect on federal programs continue

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 12:12:36 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, members of Congress are laying out their concerns about coronavirus epidemic's potential impact on many federal programs.

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Defense Department assures Congress, no more money will be moved to pay for border wall

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Deputy Secretary David Norquist says it’s unlikely DoD will be asked to do another round of reprogramming in 2021, after it moved more than $7 billion to fund wall construction.

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CISA warns of cyber criminals taking advantage of coronavirus concerns

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency gives a heads up about cyber threats linked to the coronavirus.

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GAO: Interior Dept. still hasn't justified move to Colorado

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The Government Accountability Office says Interior never gave detailed reasons for relocating specific Bureau of Land Management headquarters positions to Colorado or other western states.

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Congressional Democrats trying to save and protect federal telework programs

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, members of Congress are taking different approaches to make sure agency telework policies remain unhindered.

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Less than half of BLM employees ordered to move out west will be doing so

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt says BLM issued 173 relocation notices to employees, and about 80 accepted the move to Colorado.

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Senator wants Trump administration to set up Coronavirus.gov website

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with more and more coronavirus prevention measures taking place, one senator thinks the Trump administration should launch a website, dedicated to providing information to the public.

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White House removes nominee for DoD comptroller who raised concerns about withholding Ukraine defense aid

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Elaine McCusker is no longer the White House's choice for Defense Department Comptroller.

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Federal union worried Trump admin. may be missing the point of new paid parental leave law

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new proposals from the Office of Personnel Management has the National Treasury Employees Union concerned the administration is side-stepping the intent of the new paid parental leave law.

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Federal response to the coronavirus is in full swing

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, we get a look inside the command center of the interagency task force, responsible for tracking real-time data on the spread of the coronavirus.

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Virginia lawmaker asks presidential candidates for plans to reinvigorate federal service

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in an open letter to the democratic candidates for president, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) asks them how they plan to rebuild the federal workforce.

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While the State Dept. workforce is more diverse, it's leadership is not

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Government Accountability Office shows that while diversity has increased among workers at the State Department overall, that has not been the case for upper level managers.

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How can agencies ensure their data is protected when it's not on their network?

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies receive new ways to protect their data on contractor or non-federal systems.

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Robbery, assault, kidnappings, among things the Census Bureau is asking police to protect its enumerators from

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, U.S. Census officials are asking local law enforcement to remain vigilant against threats to 2020 census enumerators in the months ahead.

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Defense employee unions on Trump administration radar

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after a delay, the White House publishes a memo allowing the defense secretary to to exclude civilian employees from current collective bargaining law.

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After hearing complaints, GSA moves to make beta.SAM.gov information easier to find

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration is trying to make it easier to learn and ask questions about its relatively new beta.SAM.gov contract opportunities portal.

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A Couple of Trump Pardons from the Federal World You Might Not Have Heard About

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

Among those to whom President Trump granted clemency were a one-time administrator at the Office of Federal Procurement Policy and an entrepreneur, who built a technology company that served more than 41 million students, staff, employers, and government constituents worldwide.

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It's been a smooth launch for the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the DCSA says it's business model is getting more efficient in its first full year of operation.

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GSA has cut amount of federally leased property by 10 million square feet since 2014

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the agency’s fiscal 2021 budget justification to Congress shows that agencies went from about 194 million square feet of leased space in 2014, to just under 183 million square feet projected in 2021.

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Given #MeToo era, AFGE says it's a bad time for cuts at EEOC

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the American Federation of Government Employees is bashing a White House proposal to cut funding and staff at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

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Agencies ordered to prepare for GPS outage

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the departments of Commerce, Defense, Transportation and Homeland Security are on the clock to figure out how best to secure the systems that support global positioning satellites and related critical infrastructure.

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Senator wants to give FTC more firepower to take on big tech

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Josh Hawley unveils a plan to give the Federal Trade Commission more authority to help regulate companies like Facebook and Google.

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Justice Dept. suing New Jersey for immigration policy

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department is challenging a New Jersey law enforcement policy D-O-J says obstructs federal immigration enforcement.

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More coronavirus guidance for agencies

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management has more ideas to help the federal workforce prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus.

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House Republicans unveil plan to change federal pay and cut retirement packages

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Republican Study Committee want to overhaul federal employee pay, performance awards and hiring systems.

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The hunt is on for a federal deputy CIO

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget releases the job posting to fill the federal deputy chief information officer's position.

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President Trump's pick to be Defense Undersecretary for Personnel and Readiness is apparently bowing out

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, media reports indicate that J. David Patterson is removing himself from consideration.

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EEOC lays out 2020 priorities for the agency

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, customer service will be a top focus for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission this year.

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Security at child care centers in federal buildings need significant upgrades

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration's Inspector General found that all 11 of the child care centers it audited failed to meet minimum federal security standards.

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Senator asks Intelligent Community to look into Jeff Bezos phone hacking

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after one of the world's wealthiest individuals had his phone hacked, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) wants intelligence agencies to begin an investigation.

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Bill that would likely mean pay raise for TSA screeners clears committee

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Homeland Security Committee passed the Rights for Transportation Security Officers Act. The bill would move screeners at the Transportation Security Administration under the General Schedule, a move that would likely mean a pay raise.

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Looking for work? Apply to the U.S. Space Force

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, search space-force on USAJobs.gov, and you'll come up with 39 jobs, and not clerks or mail room staff, either.

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Senators worry new polices may hinder non-citizen servicemembers naturalization process

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three senators want the Government Accountability Office to evaluate the process non-citizen service members go through to become naturalized.

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GSA takes aim at those submitting fake comments on proposed regulations

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration launches a bid to ensure fairness in an important part of federal rule-making.

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Senate bill looks to make sure federal contractors actually deserve bonuses

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) introduced the Bogus Bonus Ban Act to try to rein in excessive spending on unwarranted bonuses to contractors who fail to meet certain standards on federal projects.

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Presidential candidate lays out plan to reshape federal workforce

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) is promising big changes to federal hiring and ethics policies if she is elected president.

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Bill to eliminate pay cap for VA's top healthcare workers passes the Senate

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Competitive Pay for Leaders in Veterans Health Care Act will correct an unintended consequence from a 2010 bill that was supposed to help Veterans Affairs Department fill Senior Executive Service positions.

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Independent panel finds Boeing 737 Max went through "rigorous" vetting process

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federally appointed panel finds the Federal Aviation Administration followed its own rules in certifying the troubled airplane.

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Agencies could be overpaying for rent

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says feedback from federal agencies shows the General Services Administration’s lease requirements cause building owners to charge the government more than private companies would pay for the same office space

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Pentagon to start vetting foreign soldiers trained on bases

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is getting ready to announce new vetting procedures for foreign military members studying and training at U.S. facilities.

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After TSP changes, feds are pocketing more money for retirement

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office finds federal employees are contributing and saving more for retirement, due to two Thrift Savings Plan policy changes.

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Federal Inspectors General want to bring attention to unfilled IG roles

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new page on Oversight.gov tracks Inspectors General vacancies.

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Sequestration to have no effect on agency spending in 2020, as national debt continues to trend upward

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office says agencies will not have to cut their spending because of sequestration in fiscal 2020, bad news for budget hawks concerned about the national debt.

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D.C. Congresswoman asks National Park Service about money its owes the district for shutdown help

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton is wants an update from the National Parks Service on its plan to reimburse the District of Columbia work it performed during the 35-day government shutdown of 2018-2019.

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New year, new ways for scammers to impersonate federal agencies

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, fraudsters expanded their tactics to kick off 2020 and the Social Security Administration continues to be a top target.

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Interior touts success with forest fire prevention measures

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Interior Department cleared brush and dead trees on double the amount called for in a 2018 presidential executive order.

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Amid rising tensions with Iran, the Army is forced to assure people there is no draft

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after fake notifications were sent out, the Army reiterates, despite rising tensions with Iran, there are no plans to initiate a draft.

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IRS workforce could be significantly reduced in the near future

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a mostly sunny report from the IRS includes dark clouds when it comes to the work force.

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OPM still has unresolved issues with contracts to help 2015 data breach victims

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management's inspector general says the agency is not keeping a good enough eye on the companies its contracted for identity theft protection.

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Some Marines now allowed to carry concealed firearms on bases

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, following recent shootings on military bases, the Marines is allowing its law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms.

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Army, Navy, and Air Force now required to have senior positions for basing and environment

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the 2020 Defense Authorization bill mandates all three branches have an assistant secretary for installations, energy, and environment.

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14th Air Force redesignated as Space Operations Command

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the 14th Air Force has officially been redesignated as Space Operations Command.

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OPM laying the groundwork for paid parental leave law

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new regulations to implement the paid parental leave law for federal employees are in the works.

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Auditors not so sure about expanding USPS services

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says adding those functions could increase operation costs, and decrease the efficiency of its mail and package delivery.

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VA OIG highlights continuing IT security issues with the agency

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, IT security controls continue to be a material weakness for the Veterans Affairs Department's financial management systems.

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TSP considering fixed 2% COLA for annuity recipients

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Thrift Savings Plan wants to change the rate it currently uses to calculate some annual cost of living adjustments.

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OPM answers some FAQ's about surprise day off for feds

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management makes some clarifications about President Trump's declared day off on Christmas Eve.

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CISA gets big budget boost in spending bill

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, if the fiscal 2020 budget deal gets signed into law, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will receive $2 billion, $334 million more than it received in 2019.

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Postal Service reminds employees about rules regarding holiday gifts

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, USPS' Ethics Office wants to remind its employees about the restrictions applied to receiving gifts from customers and vendors.

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Agencies spending more on governmentwide contracts than ever before

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA and GSA both saw increases in their technology services and products sales.

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Bicameral bill would even out locality and General Schedule pay

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two lawmakers want to even the playing field for hourly wage workers and General Schedule employees who work in the same location

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What federal union members are saying about a potential government shutdown

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, four out of five members of the National Treasury Employees Union say they're starting to worry about the impact of a potential government shutdown on their finances.

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GAO: GSA is underreporting how much it spent on federal real estate

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office found the agencies excluded more than $271 million in building costs per year, between fiscal 2015 through 2018.

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Agencies giving more time to comments for some proposals after Regulations.gov goes down

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a temporary outage of Regulations.gov has some agencies allowing more time for comments on certain proposed rules.

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There's too many administrative actions taking place according to one DOJ official

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Deputy Attorney General Jeff Rosen calls informal rulemaking by federal agencies the fuel of explosive growth of the administrative state.

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TSP participants must secure their online accounts by the end of the year

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Thrift Savings Plan will require tougher online security measures for its participants by the end of the year.

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DMV lawmakers ask colleagues to include all federal employees in paid family leave program

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of Maryland and Virginia Democrats are worried about plans to only give federal defense workers paid family leave.

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USPS operating costs, not dropping as fast as mail volume

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the agency's inspector general says between fiscal 2009 and 2018, USPS cut its labor costs, but also saw a decrease in mail volume.

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Skills gaps in the federal workforce starting to have consequences

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, skills gaps across the federal workforce played a role in nearly half of government's high-risk areas.

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IG: OPM could put up a better defense against cyber attacks

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new audit by the inspector general found the Office of Personnel Management's financial management systems lack some basic cybersecurity protections.

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Education Department investigating two universities' relationships with foreign governments

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two prominent universities are being investigated by the Education Department for their relationships with foreign governments.

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Congresswoman sues Commerce and Justice Department over citizenship question on 2020 Census

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as her first official act as chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, Representative Carolyn Maloney has filed a lawsuit against the Justice and Commerce Departments.

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LGBT workers at the Justice Department want reassurance from Attorney General

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, employees at the Justice Department, who are also members of the LGBT community want reassurance from Attorney General William Barr that they won't face discrimination at the workplace

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Agencies may get to hang to seasonal workers for as long as needed

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management wants to lift the current time limitations for seasonal appointments.

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Contractors will need to start keeping track of fake parts they come across

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, acquisition authorities make a proposed rule, final to keep phony parts out of systems the government buys.

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VA concerned about allegations against prominent federal labor leader

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie asks the American of Federation of Government Employees to protect VA bargaining unit employees from harassment.

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FAA whistleblower claims managers in Jacksonville are creating dangerous situation

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Special Counsel is reporting air traffic controllers in Jacksonville are not complying with the proper procedures, and their managers aren't doing much to help.

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DC area lawmakers hope to block funding for BLM move

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of DC area democrats in the House are hoping to block any funding meant for the relocation of the Bureau of Land Management's headquarters.

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NDAA amendment aims to find out if DOD experimented with weaponized bugs

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a proposal in the 2020 defense authorization bill would require the Defense Department Inspector General to tell Congress if the department experiemented with the idea of weaponizing disease carrying insects.

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More improvements needed to the Navy's training for driving ships

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says there are still some issues with the training of sailors in charge of driving ships.

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IG: Veterans Affairs put millions of vets and service members at risk of identity theft

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Benefits Administration, under pressure, reverses an Obama-era policy that resulted in Privacy Act violations.

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Military commissaries and exchanges will have wider customer base in 2020

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department says it plans to open up its commissaries and exchanges to 4.1 million new customers on New Years’ Day.

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Clock is ticking for BLM employees to decide on relocation

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, relocation notices went out to 159 employees at the Bureau of Land Management yesterday.

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OPM unveils updated plan comparison tool as Open Season gets underway

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Open Season is underway and the Office of Personnel Management says it has updated its tool for participants to compare plans.

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Senators call on White House to fill DHS vacancies

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, seven of the Homeland Security department's Senate-confirmed positions are empty, and key Senators want the president to address the issue.

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BLM to offer buyouts for workers who don't want to relocate

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 12:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Bureau of Land Management says it will offer both early-outs and buyouts to parts of its workforce.

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Number of suspended, debarred contractors falls for fourth year in a row

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 12:00:00 -0000

In today's federal newscast, agencies and contractors are doing more to avoid using the suspension and debarment process.

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GSA declares: sleeping at the office is prohibited

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration re-iterates a policy prohibiting employees from sleeping in their offices or the buildings they work in.

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Interior Dept. officials say progress has been made in eliminating harassment within its workforce

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Interior Department says it's making progress in its ongoing efforts to reduce instances of harassment at the agency

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OGE asking agencies for best coaching practices

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Government Ethics wants to hear from agencies about the best ways to train and teach employees about ethical matters.

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After 30 years, the CFO Act could use an upgrade

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Comptroller General Gene Dodaro lays out a litany of changes lawmakers should consider as they update the 1990 CFO Act.

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Two agencies teaming up to combat fraud in veterans healthcare

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have formed a new partnership to uncover potential waste, fraud and abuse among veteran health providers.

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Congress looking for ways to give TSA officers a raise

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, members of the House Homeland Security Committee are asking leaders at the Transportation Security Administration what it can do to pay the agency's officer more.

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USS John S. McCain back at sea after 2017 collision

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a long series of repairs and upgrades, the Japan-based destroyer now undergoing a series of at-sea tests and training.

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How the White House plans to commercialize federal research

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology have pitched new ideas to squeeze more dollars out of research done by agencies.

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Senator wants to reward feds who find extra federal money

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) would give federal employees bonuses, for flagging agency programs with more money than they can spend.

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Senator's bill would let agencies fire employees found guilty of sexual assault

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new legislation from Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) would give agencies the authority to fire employees and contractors convicted or credibly found to have committed sexual assault while in government.

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Senate Dems concerned with EPA's handling of contract negotiations with AFGE

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over 40 Senate Democrats express opposition to how the Environmental Protection Agency is handling its collective bargaining with the American Federation of Government Employees.

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House proposal would require federal employees receive Internet of Things cyber training

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal employees would receive mandatory Internet of Things cybersecurity training under a new bill introduced by Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA).

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With 2020 population count starting soon, what's the state of the Census Bureaus cybersecurity?

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Commerce Department’s inspector general is running an audit of the bureau’s cybersecurity measures.

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Government answers some FAQ's about feds attending conferences

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Government Policy clarifies what federal employees need to report when accepting invitations to attend conferences.

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GAO says some Marine Commands spent too much or too little on civilian employees

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Government Accountability Office report says four Marine Corps Commands either overspent or underspent at least $5 million on civilian personnel in 2019.

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Defense OIG to investigate the Pentagon's use of PFAS chemicals

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, at the request of two members of Congress, the Defense Department's inspector general has agreed to review the department's use of PFAS chemicals at military sites.

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New tool to help federal agencies complete annual FOIA reports

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department is looking to make it easier for agencies to submit their annual Freedom of Information Act reports required by law.

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GAO: VA needs plan for coming retirement wave

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Offices says one-third of the Veterans Affairs workforce is eligible to retire by 2022, and the agency has no succession plan in place.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two agencies team up to address national supply chain issues

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration and Defense Logistics Agency are conducting the first comprehensive Federal Supply Class review in almost 50 years.

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FDIC employees to get paid parental leave

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has struck a three year bargaining agreement with the National Treasury Employees Union, which includes paid parental leave.

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BLM employees given timeline to decide on relocation plans

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, employees at the Bureau of Land Management's Washington D.C. headquarters have limited time to decide if they will move out west with the agency or not.

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CDC making big changes to management structure

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a major reorganization is taking place among the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's top management offices.

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Air Force updates criminal justice platform after mass shooting highlighted flaws

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force is rolling out a new criminal justice IT system. It comes two years after the mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas highlighted flaws in the current system.

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House Dems update whistleblower guide for federal employees

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congressmen Don Beyer (D-VA) and Ted Lieu (D-CA) update their whistleblower guide, describing how federal employees in specific agencies can safely share information with inspectors general and the press.

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D.C. Delegate wants federal employees to have feds short-term disability, for a fee

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton introduces a bill to give federal employees short-term disability insurance, even if it means they'll have to pay for it.

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Veterans Affairs and Justice IG's teaming up to take on health care fraud

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the inspectors general for the Departments of Justice and Veterans Affairs are setting up a new VA health care fraud task force, to investigate and prosecute fraud within VA’s growing community care program.

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Thousands of federal employees to be asked about benefits this coming fall

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 50,000 federal employees will get a chance to sound off about their benefits this fall in the Office of Personnel Management's Federal Employee Benefits survey.

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Senator concerned USDA move is starting to effect research operations

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) says the USDA relocation is delaying implementation of the Farm Bill.

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Eugene Scalia wins confirmation to head Department of Labor

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The Senate has confirmed Eugene Scalia as the Trump administration's next Labor Secretary. Scalia, son of the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, had previously worked as the agency's top lawyer during the George W. Bush administration.

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US claims victory in compromise on international mail delivery

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The Trump Administration has declared victory in an international compromise that will allow the U.S. Postal Service to collect higher fees for delivery of small international packages entering the United States.

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NTEU says bar set too high in proving age discrimination

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Treasury Employees Union wants the Supreme Court to reverse a lower court's decision on age discrimination in the federal workforce.

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Handful of agencies can't stop spending money they don't have

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says nine agencies violated the Anti-Deficiency Act in fiscal 2018.

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Congressman and VA butting heads over office space

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) and other congressmen are pleading with Veterans Affairs Department to let them keep their offices in agency facilities.

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Are medium-sized contractors getting left behind?

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new study by the Government Accountability Office confirms it’s tough to be a medium-sized government contractor.

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With a new National Security Advisor, there's calls to bring back Cyber Coordinator position to the White House

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-MS), the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, says as cyber threats become more sophisticated, bringing back the cyber coordinator role is even more important.

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Government lost thousands of years' worth of production during shutdown

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report highlights how the most recent 35-day partial government shutdown hurt agencies.

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New program to help VA employees adjust to Electronic Health Record

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs launched a new training program to help employees impacted by the agency's ongoing electronic health record modernization.

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National intelligence chief snubs subpoena of whistleblower allegations

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The acting director of national intelligence, Joseph Maguire is withholding a whistleblower complaint alleging serious wrongdoing within the intelligence community that may involve President Donald Trump. The Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), told CBS' "Face the Nation" that Maguire declined to release the complaint because he was instructed not to by a "higher authority."

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HUD's Ben Carson cleared of misconduct in purchasing probe

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's independent watchdog has cleared Secretary Ben Carson of any misconduct in connection with the order of a $31,000 dining room set for his office suite.

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Norton, Wexton seek BLM justification for relocation moves

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

D-C Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton and Virginia Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton are trying to block the Bureau of Land Management relocation with new legislation. They introduced a bill that would require the B-L-M headquarters to remain in the national capital region.

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Senator calls for investigation into White House reprimanding NWS forecasters

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) wants the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's inspector general to start an investigation.

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A new federal approach to AI may be on the horizon

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House says it's considering a new approach to helping agencies adopt artificial intelligence.

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White House's proposed pay raise will increase special pay rates as well

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration reveals more specifics about its proposed 2.6% raise for civilian employees.

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It may be time for the government to hire cyber folks without formal degrees

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, given the acute and ongoing shortage of cybersecurity talent, government officials are starting to think about hiring on skill, rather than specific degree.

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Environmental Protection Agency's CFO stepping down

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after just over a year into the job, Holly Greaves is leaving the EPA.

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Pentagon looking to fill AI ethicist role

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is looking to hire an ethicist who can guide defense agencies on the application of artificial intelligence.

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CBP joins preparation efforts for Hurricane Dorian's arrival

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Customs and Border Protection details its preparations for the pass-through of Hurricane Dorian.

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IG finds former Assistant Attorney General used government computer to watch pornography

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Justice's Department's Inspector General reveals details on an investigation.

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Air Force gives nod to mothers who serve

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force orders all of its facilities to designate spaces for nursing mothers.

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Chair of Senate Veterans Affairs Committee to step down three years early

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA) says he's resigning at the end of the year, due to a series of growing health issues.

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Army to increase maximum reenlistment bonus

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army's issuing new maximum bonus amounts, aimed at encouraging soldiers to sign up for longer enlistments.

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Newly revealed emails show just what VA officials thought about 'Mar-a-Lago' crowd's involvement in agency affairs

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington obtained hundreds of emails, showing VA IT officials questioned the Mar--A-Lago crowd's influence on V-A's electronic health record modernization efforts.

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House VA Committee chair calls for agencywide stand-down to address veteran suicide

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA), the head of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, wants all hands on deck to address veteran suicide.

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Date is set for a major change coming to GSA schedules

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, we now know when the Federal Acquisition Service will release its consolidated schedule, which will include the new special item numbers and terms and conditions.

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VA extends smoking ban to employees, irking federal employee union

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department's smoking ban at medical facilities now extends to its employees, something their union is not happy about.

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House Rep. calls out Trump admin. after USDA buyout cut

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, news that the USDA will not be paying as much to employees who chose not to move to Kansas City next month has sparked Congressional outrage.

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EEOC offering training for federal employees to file online grievances

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission will host free online training on the agency's new online filing system for federal sector complaints and appeals.

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Federal cybersecurity is getting better

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, for the first time in 12 years, federal civilian agencies suffered no major cyber incidents in fiscal 2018.

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CBO confirms, no sequestration cuts this year

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies have one less thing to worry about for the final six weeks of fiscal 2019, budget cuts due to sequestration are not on the table.

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Interior Dept. refreshing ethics program

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt announced plans to streamline the department's 13 ethics programs into one.

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New tool to help contractors comply with federal workplace discrimination rules

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Labor Department's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has launched the Contractor Assistance Portal.

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OPM looking into why federal employees have to pay union dues after 2018 Supreme Court ruling

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management asked the Federal Labor Relations Authority how agencies can deduct union dues in light of the 2018 decision, which found local and state government workers can't be forced to pay union dues.

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USDA and AFGE come to agreement for relocated employees

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, USDA employees relocating to Kansas City will now get incentive payments to make up for their now lower salaries.

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Air Force forced to ground over 100 C-130's

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 123 C-130 planes are being temporarily removed from service after atypical cracks were discovered.

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DOD IG wants to make sure Pentagon is buying American

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon’s inspector general is investigating whether DoD is complying with a law meant to protect domestic suppliers.

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Agencies spending more repaying employees' student loans

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management says it's closely monitoring agencies' use of the student loan repayment program in a tough budget environment.

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Senators worried political pressure effecting Pentagon cloud contract

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Virginia’s two senators want to know why Defense Secretary Mark Esper is conducting his own examination of DoD’s upcoming JEDI Cloud contract.

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GAO: Changes in leadership at the State Dept. have hampered reorganization efforts

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office found leadership changes have stalled out some of the agency’s reorganization efforts

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FBI to access social media data in search of bad guys

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0000

The Federal Bureau of Investigation said it is looking to use social media tools to monitor possible domestic threats. The FBI has issued a request for proposal from vendors for the software tools it needs to access lawfully-collected information from social media subscription services.

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Proposed law would empower FTC to end addictive practices in social media

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) has introduced a bill that would give the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys the power to act against social media companies that don't remove addictive features in their websites.

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Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson will continue her fight in retirement

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 09:00:00 -0000

National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson is stepping down today, retiring after 19 years of running the Taxpayer Advocate Service at the IRS. Olson said she plans to start a nonprofit to continue advocating for taxpayer rights and fight against IRS bureaucracy.

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Postal Service managers suing for higher pay

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Association of Postal Supervisors has filed a lawsuit against US-PS, seeking back pay for managers, postmasters, and other administrative professionals, to match what their counterparts earn in the private sector.

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House Rep. trying again to help federal retirees who saw cuts to Social Security

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill in the House would replace the Windfall Elimination Provision which currently cuts Social Security benefits for federal retirees who worked in a private sector job and also receive a government pension.

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Large group of Marines charged with smuggling migrants into the U.S.

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an investigation into Marines accused of helping smuggle migrants into the United States led to the arrest Thursday of 16 of their fellow Marines at California’s Camp Pendleton, just north of the U.S.-Mexico border.

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Interior Dept. facing shortage of firefighters

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of the Interior fell short of its hiring goal.

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NSA creates new Cybersecurity Directorate

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Security Agency is bringing together its foreign intelligence and cyber defense missions into a new directorate.

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HHS gets recommendations on how to better spend its money

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Health and Human Services releases 25 ways the agency can improve how it spends taxpayer money.

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Former NSA contractor sentenced for hoarding sensitive materials

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former National Security Agency contractor who stole nearly 20 years worth of sensitive information finds out his fate.

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Esper's nomination for Defense Secretary advances to full Senate

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 07:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Mark Esper's nomination for Defense secretary has won the approval of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

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OPM urges agencies to consider telework and workplace flexibilities during this week's heat wave

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management is urging agencies to consider telework and workplace flexibilities during this week's heat wave.

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Esper vows to fill other Pentagon vacancies if confirmed as Defense Secretary

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Mark Esper is poised to become the next Defense secretary. If he’s confirmed, one of his first jobs will be to help fill the rest of the vacant politically-appointed positions in the Pentagon.

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New location for BLM headquarters announced

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Bureau of Land Management is setting up new headquarters out west.

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Trump admin. looking to make it easier for federal employees to stop paying union dues

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Labor Relations Authority and Office of Personnel Management are looking for feedback on existing law that governs federal employees' payments to their union.

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More resistance to merge OPM and GSA

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, yet another legislative attempt to block the Trump administration's proposed merger of the Office of Personnel Management with the General Services Administration, passed the House.

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GSA extends deadlines for USDA Kansas City headquarters

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration extended the deadline for proposals for the Agriculture Department to lease space in the Kansas City region.

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Pentagon delaying major change to Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is putting off the elimination of a major benefit for post 9/11 veterans.

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House Committee chairman wants investigation into Border Patrol Facebook group

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Homeland Security Committee chairman Bennie Thompson (D-MS) wants the Inspector General to find out if and when leadership at Customs and Border Protection knew about a secret Facebook group with current and former Border Patrol agents.

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Federal contractors could get favorable treatment from regulators for hiring disabled workers

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Labor Department is looking to reward four contractors who make an effort to hire qualified disabled people.

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Complaints about government imposter scams reach record high

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Trade Commission says complaints about scammers pretending to be from the government reached the highest levels on record this spring.

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VA updates policies on religious materials at medical facilities

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department is changing its rules regarding religious materials at its facilities.

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Negotiations between Social Security and administrative law judges' union, break down

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, there's been another setback in negotiations between Social Security Administration management and its cadre of administrative law judges.

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White House asks agencies to show their work implementing new laws and policies

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget releases its Circular A-11 update, tasking agencies with showing their progress in complying with new laws and management requirements.

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Agencies given deadline to phase out paper records

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget has given agencies a timeline to switch from paper records, to electronic records.

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Senate passes NDAA, includes pay raise for troops

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate passes its version of the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes a 3.1% pay raise for active duty military.

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Many employees at USDA's Economic Research Service may choose to not follow their agency to Kansas City

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the new local union at the Agriculture Department's Economic Research Service estimate four out of five employees will decline to relocate out of the national capital region.

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At least eight agencies are at risk for major data breach

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from a Senate committee shows at least eight cabinet agencies are failing to comply with federal cybersecurity standards.

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Legislators trying again to get seniors bigger cost of living adjustment

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, legislation in both the House and Senate aims to guarantee every senior a Social Security cost of living adjustment with an annual floor of no less than 3%.

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Updated AI plan seeks more public-private partnerships

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The Trump Administration's revised national reserach and development plan for artificial intelligence calls for more collaboration between government, academia, non-profits and the private sector.

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Taxpayer Advocate says IRS still struggles with public service

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson says response times to incoming calls at the IRS remains the biggest challenge the agency has in dealing with the public. In her final report to Congress before retiring, Olson said the IRS is successful in processing most returns, but for those who need more help, the experience is challenging.

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Report: Social Security's death records continue to be inaccurate

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The Social Security Advisory Board has joined the Government Accounability Office in calling SSA's to share its death records to curb improper payments.

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White House not on board with giving contractors back pay for government shutdown

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration says the idea will be too costly and increase the risk of fraud, waste, and improper payments.

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White House wants at least one-third of federal advisory committees gone

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Donald Trump signed an executive order last week directing federal agencies to cut at least one-third of all federal advisory committees.

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Federal workers could have benefits protected during future government shutdowns

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two bills to protect federal employees' health insurance benefits during future government shutdowns advanced to the full House for a vote.

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Senate provision calls for review of Pentagon's total IT workforce

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a provision in the annual Defense bill the Senate Armed Services Committee released this week would order a top-to-bottom review of the contractor, civilian and military IT positions in each military service and DoD agency.

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Customers rank federal agencies lower than airlines and car rental services

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, according to new numbers from market research company Forrester, the federal government as a whole was ranked lower than airlines, car rental services, and health care providers.

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Bill to create cyber incident response teams at DHS passes the House

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Rep. Michael McCaul's (R-TX) bill, the DHS Cyber Incident Response Teams Act, would create groups of cyber first responders in the event of a cyber attack on the government or private sector.

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House appropriators say no to another agency's reorganization plans

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, funding to support the Interior Department's plans to reorganize its bureaus and management functions into 12 unified regions across the country is absent from the House 20-20 appropriations bill.

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Nuclear Regulatory Commission could face shortage of cyber inspectors

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the NRC's inspector general finds a third of NRC's inspectors will be eligible to retire in 2020.

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Veterans Affairs told it should stop posting disciplinary actions on its website

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an arbitrator finds the Veterans Affairs Department should take down a public record of employee firings and other punishments from its website.

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Congressional VA committee leaders want a better answer on secret wait lists

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate and House Veterans Affairs committee leaders are demanding answers from the VA about claims involving secret wait lists for veterans seeking care.

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Bicameral efforts to save nearly 1,000 Forest Service jobs are underway

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House and Senate lawmakers have taken steps to prevent a White House proposal which would result in about 1,000 layoffs at the U.S. Forest Service.

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Government contracting dollars spiked in 2018

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says agency spending on products and services in 2018 reached its highest level in seven years.

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House subcommittee looks to give federal employees another pay bump

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Appropriations Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee includes a pay raise for civilian employees in its 2020 spending bill

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Navy ramping up adoption of new pay and hiring system for cyber employees

Fri, 31 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Navy’s Fleet Cyber Command started wide-scale implementation of the Cyber Excepted Service this month.

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Trump admin. plan to cut DOD workers' rights gets axed from Senate NDAA

Thu, 30 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a White House plan to take away some workers rights from civilian D-O-D employees gets denied support from the Senate

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CBP creates new position to handle border apprehensions

Wed, 29 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, to help ease the administrative burden on Border Patrol agents, Customs and Border Protection is creating a new position assigned with handling the processing of people apprehended at the border.

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First look at new ideas to modernize Congress

Tue, 28 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress approves its first round of recommendations.

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Army ready to open more combat positions to female soldiers

Mon, 27 May 2019 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Army officials give an update of how many female soldiers are now in combat brigades, and plans to place more in the future.

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Trump administration unhappy with House appropriators for not funding Interior reorganization

Fri, 24 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget is expressing its displeasure with the early versions of appropriations bills coming out of the House Appropriations Committee.

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DOD stepping up recruitment efforts to find more diverse cyber talent

Thu, 23 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as part of a new pilot program, the Defense Department awards contracts to five companies to actively recruit technical talent from the private sector.

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OPM encourages more telework during summer Metro shutdowns

Wed, 22 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, OPM is recommending federal agencies adjust their teleworking policies to accommodate disruptions to employees commutes with looming Metro station closures this summer.

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TSA leaders promise reforms to make agency a better place to work

Tue, 21 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Transportation Security Administration administrator David Pekoske promises a series of changes to improve TSA's human capital practices.

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Despite increase in federal managers failing probationary periods, agencies hardly takes action

Mon, 20 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Merit Systems Protection Board finds between 1999 and 2016, only about 7 for ever 1000 new supervisors faced consequences for failing their probationary period.

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Despite new accountability law, VA still finding it tough to fire director of DC facility

Fri, 17 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the Veterans Affairs Department second attempt at firing the director of its DC facility, VA's case against Brian Hawkins is reportedly falling apart, and he will be reinstated.

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EEOC employees union wastes no time presenting issues to new chairwoman

Thu, 16 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Council 216 of the American Federation of Government Employees is urging the new Chairwoman of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to push for more staff.

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House VA committee leaders worried agency is not doing enough to stop sexual harassment at VA facilities

Wed, 15 May 2019 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan group in the House Veterans Affairs Committee wants more information about V-A's plans to curb sexual harassment among female veterans and employees.

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Postal Service retains title of Americans' favorite agency

Tue, 14 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new Gallup poll shows three in four Americans say USPS is doing a good or excellent job.

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Senate bill would have GSA and OMB draft plans for relocating agencies outside of D.C.

Mon, 13 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new bill from Senator Todd Young (R-IN) would grant the Office of Management and Budget and the General Services Administration the authority to draft plans for moving non-national security agencies to other areas.

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Less workers at the IRS means....less work getting done

Fri, 10 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, amid shrinking budgets and workforce cuts, the IRS has also seen a reduction in tax enforcement.

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Senators look to revive program to help small businesses work with the Pentagon

Thu, 09 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new Senate bill looks to improve the Defense Department’s Mentor-Protégé Program, which expired last year.

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GAO has suggestions for Congress in handling whistleblowers

Wed, 08 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office has provided Congress with some best practices when it comes to dealing with federal whistleblowers.

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USPS may start delivering booze for extra money

Tue, 07 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new bill in the House calls for allowing the Postal Service to deliver alcohol to consumers.

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USDA narrows down choices for relocation of two bureaus

Mon, 06 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue reveals where the agency is looking to relocate the Economic Research Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

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New bill to help temporary federal workers save for retirement

Fri, 03 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, A bipartisan pair of lawmakers want to give some federal employees a new retirement flexibility.

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Third intelligence official of the year found guilty of conspiring with Chinese government

Thu, 02 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, another former member of the intelligence community is found to have conspired with Chinese intelligence services.

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New bill would let military servicemembers sue Pentagon for medical malpractice

Wed, 01 May 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a handful of members of Congress introduce a bill to allow military servicemembers to sue the Department of Defense for instances of medical malpractice unrelated to their military duties.

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New rule could shift defense contracts to performance-based payment model

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is looking to require all fixed price contracts be paid out through performance-based contractual payments.

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Lawmakers worried about the amount of leadership turnover at the Homeland Security Department

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Three House committee chairmen are launching an investigation into recent leadership changes at the Homeland Security Department.

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CBP hopes new retention incentive will convince Border Patrol agents to stick around

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Customs and Border Protection is offering bonuses to Border Patrol agents who enter into a 12 month service agreement with the agency.

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Coast Guard to get new icebreaker, but says it will need more to compete in the Arctic

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Coast Guard will finally get one of it's ships it says it's needed for a long time, but also puts out a new strategy for the Arctic region which says it will need more ships, planes, helicopters, and drones.

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Social Security Administration will need to dip into reserve funds to stay afloat

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in their annual report to Congress, the Social Security Trustees say they expect total costs to exceed income next year, and in all the years beyond that.

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Labor Dept. trying out faster way to process contractor punishments

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Labor Department will pilot a faster approach to discretionary suspension and debarment with its Inspector General and its Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management.

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IRS is having trouble outing tax cheats under its own roof

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration finds the I-R-S doesn't always follow its own procedures for reviewing and adjudicating cases of missed filings or under-reported income.

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OGE considering restrictions for donations to federal employees' legal expense funds

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Government Ethics wants feedback on whether it should set restrictions on donations to legal expense funds for federal employees.

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Another clue into when feds will see raise in their paychecks

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, all signs point to federal employees' paychecks looking a little larger by early next week.

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Hundreds of federal officers have personal information hacked

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the personal information of hundreds of federal agents and police officers appears to have been stolen from websites affiliated with alumni of the FBI’s National Academy.

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Bill to give federal employees 12 weeks of paid family leave now has Senate companion

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a version of the Federal Employee Paid Leave Act is introduced into the Senate.

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Navy will drop all charges against those facing court-martial trials for deadly collision

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, it appears the Navy will be dropping all charges against leadership involved in the USS Fitzgerald's fatal collision with a merchant ship.

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A new bill to provide financial help to federal employees during government shutdowns

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) introduces new legislation requiring federal regulators to encourage financial institutions to work with consumers and other business impacted by a shutdown.

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New plan recommends reducing food waste at federal buildings

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new federal interagency strategy from the Agriculture Department, the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, looks to reduce how much food is wasted.

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Air Force may be better off trying to keep pilots than creating more

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new study from the RAND Corporation shows it would cost the military more money to create new pilots, rather than trying to keep the ones it currently has.

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Federal arbiters' ruling means HHS employees will see leave and telework days cut down

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Services Impasses Panel sides mostly with management in a disputed between labor groups and the Health and Human Services Department.

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DHS gets kudos for management reforms

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, auditors at the Government Accountability Office say DHS has made considerable progress towards fixing management weaknesses.

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Does TSA have a retention problem?

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a quarter of the 8,000 Transportation Security Administration officers who left the agency in fiscal 2017, left within the first six months on the job.

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Pair of bills would ensure federal workers don't lose insurance during future shutdowns

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers introduce two new bills to ensure federal employees don't lose insurance benefits during future government shutdowns.

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IG: Cyber crime victims waited for up nine months to be notified by the FBI

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department's Inspector General says the FBI’s notification system, Cyber Guardian, lacked complete and reliable data, making it harder for the agency to determine whether all cyber-crime victims had been informed.

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House bill would create panel of cyber experts to help DHS

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, bipartisan legislation in the house would create a panel of cyber professionals to advise the Homeland Security Department.

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Senators want to disband VA review committee...before it's even formed

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two senators want to reverse steps Congress took last year to begin a comprehensive review of medical facilities at the Veterans Affairs Department.

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Senators hope to eliminate federal retirement cuts from budget resolution

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three Senate Democrats want to take federal retirement cuts off the table in the proposed 2020 budget resolution.

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GAO: Cuts to IRS workforce are taking a toll

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, staffing cuts at the IRS have limited its ability to conduct audits, according to the Government Accountability Office.

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DoD authorizes up to $1 billion for wall at U.S. southern border

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, up to $1 billion from the Pentagon is now available to help support the Homeland Security Department's drug enforcement efforts at the southern border.

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Large amount of IT updates may have doomed Forever GI bill from the start

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department's inspector general releases its review of the agency's implementation of the new Forever GI bill.

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President Trump names pick for U.S. CTO

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, former venture capitalist Michael Kratsios is tapped to become the next U.S. Chief Technology Officer.

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White House to examine Management Agenda one year later

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Trump administration says it now sees an opportunity to build on many of the 14 cross-agency priority goals outlined in the President's Management Agenda.

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White House wants $17.6B for cybersecurity in 2020 budget, mostly DoD

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The White House plans on spending even more to secure federal networks and data in 2020. President Donald Trump requested $17.6 billion for federal cybersecurity efforts next year. To listen to the Federal Newscast on your phone or mobile device, subscribe on PodcastOne or Apple Podcasts. The best listening experience on desktop can be found using Chrome, Firefox or Safari

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GSA awards new contract to help federal awards process run smoother

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration is changing how it verifies that companies are eligible to do business with or receive assistance from the government.

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Bipartisan support builds for increase employment access for former criminals

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

There is strong bipartisan in both the House and Senate for criminal justice reform that removes barriers to employment for people with a criminal record. Proponents of the legislation say it would help reduce recidivism and strengthen families.

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Adjudications feeling the pressure as NBIB cuts security clearance backlog

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

The National Background Investigations Bureau said it's made some serious progress on the backlog of pending security clearances. It's down to 542,000 now. But as NBIB finishes more cases more quickly, that puts pressure other organizations with the federal personnel vetting enterprise. Federal News Network's Nicole Ogrysko joined Federal Drive with Tom Temin to discuss the progress and the status of that pesky executive order that's supposed to move the security clearance program altogether.

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Administration's proposal to cut federal retirement sees bipartisan pushback

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

President Donald Trump’s proposed cuts to the federal retirement system are drawing criticism from some members of Congress. Hear this story and more in today's Federal Newscast. To listen to the Federal Newscast on your phone or mobile device, subscribe on PodcastOne or Apple Podcasts. The best listening experience on desktop can be found using Chrome, Firefox or Safari.

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Leader of both NSA and Cyber Command has “classified” opinion on splitting the two roles

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

Gen. Paul Nakasone currently leads both organizations in a relationship that has existed since CYBERCOM was first created a decade ago. Asked whether he believed it was time to appoint separate leaders, Nakasone said recommendation is "classified".

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Trump's budget targets the backlog of asylum cases

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

Besides an $8.6 billion request for to complete his southern border wall, The administration has requested $72 million to fund the stronger enforcement of immigration laws and to reduce the nation's backlog of asylum cases.

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Troops stand to get 3.1% increase in Trump budget proposal

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

Service members would see a 3.1 percent pay raise next January under the president’s plan, and the military would add about 30,000 more active-duty and reserve troops.

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Senators hope to secure back pay for contractors affected by government shutdown

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a group of nearly 40 senators are urging the appropriations committee to include back pay for federal contractors impacted by the last government shutdown, in an upcoming disaster relief package.

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Acting Director of Indian Health Service in hot water over pedophile doctor

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee want to hear from Acting Director Rear Admiral Michael Weahkee, about what he's done to improve on an apparent failure of IHS to provide quality health care.

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Military unveils plan to help servicemembers with on base housing issues

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Army, Navy and Air Force say they’re establishing a “tenant’s bill of rights” to help military members deal with cases of substandard on-base housing.

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DMV lawmakers ask about 1.9% raise....again

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, several DC area members of Congress want to know if it's realistic for federal employees to expect more money in their next paycheck on March 15.

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Congressman takes aim at federal travel with series of bills

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ) is on a "journey" to make sure federal agencies don't abuse federal travel plans.

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More time given for security clearance modernization ideas

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more time is given for companies to come up with new ideas for the security clearance process.

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Navy says F-35 is ready for action

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more than 17 years after Pentagon’s most expensive weapons acquisition first started, the Navy says its version of the F-35 is ready for combat.

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Departments of Labor and Transportation hit with cyber spoofing attack

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the cybersecurity firm Anomali Labs says it's found a malicious server hosting two separate phishing campaigns targeting government contractors looking to do business with the Labor and Transportation departments.

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USPS exploring idea of self-driving mail trucks

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. Postal Service is asking industry for an autonomous vehicle that can follow a route while a mail carrier is able to sort the mail for delivery.

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Union seeks answers on when federal employees can expect to see pay raise

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Treasury Employees Union is asking the Office of Personnel Management when federal employees can expect to see the 1.9 percent pay raise recently signed into law.

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Judge rules all-male military draft is unconstitutional

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the National Coalition for Men sued, a federal district judge rules in its favor, saying forcing only men to register for the Selective Service is unfair.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission looks to become fully digital

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the EEOC says it now has the capability to make its charge processing and records system fully digital.

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A win for federal retires in the Supreme Court

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Supreme Court rules in favor of a federal retiree, who says the state of West Virginia unfairly taxed his annuity income.

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Federal employees get much needed guidance for help during shutdown

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Government Ethics lays out what kind of aid furloughed employees are allowed to receive during a government shutdown.

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U.S. Forest Service still facing sexual misconduct problem

Tue, 19 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Agriculture Department's Inspector General finds the U.S. Forest Service is not quickly acting on sexual assault and harassment allegations.

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Senator wants list of military projects to be affected by President Trump's emergency declaration

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) is asking the Defense Department which military projects will lose funding due to President Trump diverting $3.5 billion from military construction accounts to build a wall on the southern border.

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IG: Education Dept. not doing enough to regulate student loan industry

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the agency's inspector general finds the Education Department lacks policies and procedures to ensure loan servicers act in compliance with federal law.

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CBO: DoD will need $735 billion by 2033 to cover cost of plans

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office takes a look at just how much it will cost for the Defense Department to go through with all of its plans for the near future.

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Federal Labor Relations Board ending relations with its labor union

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Labor Relations Authority, the agency in charge of union relationships, no longer has one with it's own employees union.

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New VA committee chair looking into 'Mar-a-Lago crowd' influence at agency

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative Mark Takano (D-CA) is launching an official investigation into the influence of three members of President Trump’s Mar-A-Lago golf club, on recent personnel and policy decisions at the Veterans Affairs Department.

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OPM answers some post-shutdown HR questions

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management answers some lingering questions that popped up due to the recent partial government shutdown.

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Grounded for nearly a decade, NASA to start sending manned spacecraft again this summer

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA announces it will be running a test flight of a crewed commercial space craft some time in July.

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Another new source of financial help for furloughed workers for next possible shutdown

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board issues a new interim rule allowing participants in the Thrift Savings Plan to take a loan while in non-pay status.

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Federal employees can still be fired for accidentally eating marijuana edibles

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a federal court rules against an employee appealing his removal when he failed a drug test, after he says he accidentally ate a pot brownie.

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ICE lacking oversight of detention facility contractors

Tue, 05 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Homeland Security Inspector General finds when it comes to detention facilities contractors, Immigration and Customs Enforcement doesn't adequately hold them accountable for written performance standards.

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National Parks Service lost millions during partial government shutdown

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an internal email to staff at the National Park Service explains the effect the partial government shutdown had on the agency.

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Army Secretary 'disappointed' in amount of sexual assaults at military academies

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Defense Department shows there was a slight increase in the amount of sexual assaults reported at military academies.

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Plan to give civilian federal employees pay raise gets more Congressional support

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department releases its much anticipated community care standards, which lay out what veterans are allowed to get medical treatment from non-VA doctors.

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Plan to give civilian federal employees pay raise gets more Congressional support

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate Democrats have brought forth a companion to a new bill from House Democratic leaders, which calls for giving civilian federal employees a 2.6 percent pay raise.

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Lawmakers anxiously await Veterans Affairs' new community care standards

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, there are many Democrats in Congress worried about VA's new regulations expanding veterans' access to private care.

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Shutdown ends, but another one may be right around the corner

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Donald Trump hints that another government shutdown is likely after funding runs out again in three weeks.

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Shutdown has cost small businesses $2.3 billion

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates there were about $2.3 billion in government contracts that would have been issued to small firms over the past month, but weren't because of the government shutdown.

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White House: What will happen if shutdown goes into spring?

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agency leaders are being asked to provide a list of what programs will be effected if the current partial government shutdown goes into March and April.

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'Emergency directive' from DHS calls for agencies to step up cyber measures

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Homeland Security Department says a series of incidents have tampered with agencies Domain Name Systems on their websites.

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VA wait times appear to be going down

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new study in the Journal of American Medicine Association finds veterans waited fewer days in 2017 than 2014.

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New bill asks the Treasury Dept. to offer furloughed feds interest free loans

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative TJ Cox's (D-CA) first introduced legislation in Congress is meant to ease the financial hardship furloughed federal employees are currently enduring.

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Senators ask for TSA's plan as shutdown drags on

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two Senators ask the Transportation Security Administration for its plan if staffing shortages and call outs continue.

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Bills to protect federal employees and interns from sexual harassment pass House

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, bills to improve agency oversight of sexual harassment and give federal interns the same protection as employees pass the House.

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Senator wants update on furloughed feds' health coverage

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) is asking the Office of Personnel Management how it's making sure federal employees furloughed due to the government shutdown are still receiving healthcare coverage.

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TSA to bring some financial relief to its screeners going unpaid during shutdown

Tue, 15 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, along with bonuses, the Transportation Security Administration says it can legally pay employees who worked the first day of the shutdown.

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Senator wonders why National Park site in Trump hotel is still being staffed

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Gary Peters wants to know why it decided to reopen the Old Post Office Tower within the Trump Hotel during the government shutdown.

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Report: Shutdown is costing U.S. economy $430 million a day

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, analysis shows the loss of salary from federal workers, and the loss of income substitution provided through USDA because of the government shutdown will have a significant effect on the nation's economy.

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Should Congress get paid during a shutdown? One member says no

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill introduced by Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) would authorize congressional payroll administrators to dock pay for members of Congress for as long as a government shutdown continues.

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Federal employees could lose total of $2 billion in pay during government shutdown

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a review by the Center for American Progress looks at how much money federal workers could lose during the partial government shutdown.

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Federal courts can hold out two more weeks under government shutdown

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, federal courts will be able to continue operating until January 18 with their limited funds during the partial government shutdown.

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Senate bills would secure back pay for low-wage federal contractors

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

A bill in Congress would make sure federal employees who work in security, food service, and janitorial services, get reimbursed after the government shutdown ends.

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Coalition of federal employee groups plead with White House to end shutdown

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an alliance of 30 federal employee organizations are urging the President to end the partial government shutdown.

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New Congress lays out priorities with appropriations bills

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, incoming House leadership unveils its new rules package without including rule which lets Congress reduce the number of employees an agency can have.

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HHS unveils new cybersecurity ideas for healthcare industry

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Health and Human Services issues voluntary cybersecurity practices for the healthcare industry.

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Reminder: No gifts for federal employees, even during a shutdown

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, agencies remind their employees, the same ethics rules and guidelines apply during a government shutdown.

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CBP Commissioner pleads for Congressional help after second child dies in its custody

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan says Congress needs to fund improvements to the agency's holding facilities.

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President Trump wants at least some barriers at southern border before ending shutdown

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscasts, the President lays out his latest set of demands from Democrats to end the partial government shutdown.

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Congressman brushes off idea of federal workers living paycheck to paycheck

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, while some members of Congress are trying to make sure federal employees can get paid during a potential shutdown, don't expect every member to feel sorry for them.

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Senate approves bill calling for more security measures on IT supply chain

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security act establishes a council to come up with policies and processes for agencies to evaluate risks to the IT supply chain.

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The Postal Service could stand to lose a few...square feet

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service's Inspector General says USPS has more than a million square feet in excess real estate.

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Miscue at Federal Protective Service had some inspectors earning more than the Vice President

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Protective Service mismanaged its payroll and budget leading to excessive overtime and spending shortfalls.

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Zinke to leave Interior Dept. at the end of the year

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, citing the cost of defending himself against "false" allegations, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said he will be stepping down.

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Special Operations Command to issue ethics guidance, amid scandals

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, General Raymond Thomas III calls for a 90-day review amid a handful of ethics scandals.

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Senate Dems lay out shutdown possibilities

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senate Democrats say over 300,000 federal employees will be furloughed if Congress can't come to a deal on 7 remaining appropriation bills.

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Latest FITARA scores show improvement

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 11 agencies improved their grades, and for the first time no agency received an F on the Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act or FITARA scorecard.

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CBP issues partial stop work order to Accenture for hiring contract

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Customs and Border Protection issues Accenture a partial stop work order to pause its nearly 300 million dollar contract to hire more border patrol agents.

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Congressman wants OSC to reconsider ban on impeachment talk

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative Elijah Cummings (D-MD) is asking the Office of Special Counsel to rescind its recent memo prohibiting certain speech such as resist or impeachment.

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New report highlights Air Force mistakes in mass shooter's background check

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department's Inspector General says the Air Force missed certain steps that could have prevented last year's mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

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Study shows military pay has been rising faster than civilian pay

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new study by the RAND Corporation analyzes how military pay stacks up against civilian pay over the last 20 years.

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Army Sergeant gets 25 years in prison for supporting ISIS

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department says Sgt. Ikaika Kang provided sensitive military documents and military equipment to who he thought were members of ISIS.

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Pentagon IG, seeing success with new way of handling whistleblower retaliation complaints

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, officials with the Defense Department's Office of Inspector General say they’ve had much more success with a new alternative dispute resolution process.

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Senate bill would make it harder for political appointees to become civil servants

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee bill would create stronger laws to prevent political appointees from becoming career federal employees.

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Bill to digitize more government services passes House

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Integrated Digital Experience Act calls for digitizing government processes and establishing minimum standards for federal websites.

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VA makes change to payment method for Forever GI Bill benefits

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department is forced to change how it pays for veterans' education benefits after IT problems.

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Federal employee union warns Congress about the effect a shutdown would have on agency operations

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, with the threat of a government shutdown looming, the National Treasury Employees Union is pleading with Congress to pass the seven remaining appropriations bills.

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GAO to investigate influence Mar-A-Lago members had in VA decisions

Tue, 27 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after requests from Congress, the Government Accountability Office will look into how the Veterans Affairs Department developed its strategy for its electronic health record modernization program.

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VA reorganizes health administration to comply with Trump executive order

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

The Department of Veterans Affairs said it is realigning the health administration to comply with the president's reorganization executive order.

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Documents show more than 200 cases of Federal Air Marshals misusing firearms

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, there have been more than 200 cases of Federal Air Marshals misusing their firearms between 2005 and 2017.

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NASA receives yet another clean financial audit

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA receives its 8th consecutive clean financial audit opinion for fiscal year 2018.

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OPM building public database of federal union agreements

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management gives federal agencies more guidance on how to comply with the White House's executive orders on union relations.

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Senators want more tax help for federal employees who relocate

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Mark Warner (D-VA) say federal agencies aren’t proactively helping employees understand how or if they should pay taxes on moving expenses for their jobs.

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How one agency cut over $4.5 billion in improper payments

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services says it avoided handing out more than $4.5 billion in improper payments under one of its signature programs in fiscal 2018.

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How IRS Investigations division is coping with smaller workforce

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, in it’s annual report for 2018, the IRS’ Criminal Investigation division explains how it’s maintaining enforcement despite not having as many agents as it used to.

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Another year of financial losses for the Postal Service

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Postal Service lost money for the 12th straight year, though a rate increase on stamps could help.

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IG: Still more OPM can do to improve cybersecurity stanadards

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management’s inspector general assesses what the agency had done to improve its cybersecurity controls since the 2014 data breach.

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IT problems cause delay in veterans receiving GI Bill benefits

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, thousands of veterans are waiting for the Veterans Affairs Department to pay their education benefits.

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Wilkie says Congress won't go along with VA budget cuts

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie said he is not concerned about the president's request that all agencies cut their budgets by 5 percent next year, adding that he does not think Congress will go along with it where VA is concerned.

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Warner presses for DoD action on substandard military housing

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) is pushing the Defense Department for information on how it will fix derelict homes on several bases in Virginia. The inquiry comes after a report from Reuters that detailed serious hazards in military housing across the country

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Cybersecurity collaboration on mid-terms now being re-focused on 2020

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

An unprecedented federal and state collaboration to defend election systems against Russian interference ended this week with no obvious voting system compromises.

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Democratically-controlled House could have positive effect for feds

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with Democrats retaking the House, it could have a big effect on federal workforce issues and committee oversight.

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IRS increases amount TSP participants can contribute in 2019

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the IRS sets the annual contribution limit for 401k style retirement plans and the Thrift Savings Plan for 2019.

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Agencies get some help solidifying their insider threat programs

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the National Insider Threat Task Force introduces a new maturity framework to help teach agencies what makes a good program.

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Federal employees union wants CFPB official gone

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the National Treasury Employees Union files a mass grievance against the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, for keeping on a political appointee who admitted to making racially charged blog posts.

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Federal Unions' OPM lawsuits heading back to court

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on the Federal News Network, federal employee unions are heading back to court to pursue their cases against the Office of Personnel Management over the agency's cyber breaches.

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Interior IG refers investigation into Sec. Zinke to Justice Dept.

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of the Interior inspector general has referred one of their investigations into Secretary Ryan Zinke's actions to the Department of Justice for it to take over.

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Postal Service hoped downsizing would save more

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, USPS’ Inspector General finds the agency only saved $91 million in 2016 and 2017 after consolidating more than 200 facilities, well below it’s goal.

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OPM wants to let agency leaders administer direct-hire authorities

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on the Federal News Network, the Office of Personnel Management is changing regulations on direct-hire authorities.

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CBO: Giving Trump authority to devise re-org plan would not impact budget

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office assessed a bill which would give the Trump administration expedited authority to reorganize the federal government. The administration would need to report regularly to the Congress on the status, costs, and savings of any such reorganization and CBO would still need to prepare a financial analysis of any plan submitted to Congress under the bill.

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FERC Chairman resigns due to health concerns

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Neil Chatterjee will take over as chair of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, after Kevin McIntyre announced he was stepping down due to a "health setback."

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GSA moving forward with automated contract oversight process

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration is fixing a shortcoming of the acquisition oversight process by using artificial intelligence.

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Dozens of states express interest in hosting new locations for two USDA bureaus

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, 35 states and 136 different groups express interest in hosting the new locations for the Agriculture Department’s Economic Research Service and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture bureaus.

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Another Navy Commander sentenced in ‘Fat Leonard’ case

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, former Navy commander Troy Amundson gets more than two years in prison for accepting gifts from the now infamous contractor Leonard Francis.

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New playbook to help agencies battle fraud

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the CFO Council and Bureau of the Fiscal Services creates a new playbook with information to help agencies reduce the risk of fraud.

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White House touts savings from deregulatory actions

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the White House says its regulatory reform efforts saved $23 billion in fiscal 2018.

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Move to replace Interior Department’s Inspector General leaves some troubled

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Project on Government Oversight calls the move to replace Acting Interior Inspector General Mary Kendall with a political appointee “puzzling.”

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Longtime Senate security director pleads guilty to lying to FBI

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, James Wolfe, who was the head of the security for the Senate Intelligence Committee for almost 30 years, pleads guilty to making false statements to the FBI about his interactions with a news organization.

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VA appoints new permanent director for DC medical center

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie appoints a new permanent director for the DC medical center.

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Florida Air Force Base severely damaged by Hurricane Michael

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on the Federal News Network, base officials are the describing the damage at Tyndall Air Force Base in the Florida panhandle as “catastrophic.”

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DoD and VA both commit to one, interoperable, Electronic Health Record

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs sign an official joint statement, containing provisions to hold both agencies accountable during the project.

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GSA requiring two-step verification for all federal agency websites

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration announces starting this month, all federal domains ending in .gov or .fed will require the use of Google authenticator when logging in.

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DHS: Agro Industry also facing cybersecurity challenges

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on the Federal News Network, a new report from the Homeland Security Department says large agricultural operations face cyber threats like data theft, and even destruction of large-scale farm equipment.

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Tropical Storm Michael nears hurricane strength, alerting federal responders in Florida

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

Federal responders and support units are keeping their eyes on Tropical Storm Michael that rapidly formed off Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula over the weekend. The National Hurricane Center says the storm is expected to gain hurricane status tonight and could become a dangerous Category 2 hurricane with an expected midweek strike on the Gulf Coast in the Florida Panhandle.

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Voice of America fires 15 staffers for accepting bribes from a foreign officia

Fri, 05 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The Voice of America announced Thursday it has fired or proposed to terminate more than half the members of its Hausa language service following an investigation that found the individuals had accepted improper payments from a foreign official in West Africa.

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IRS questionned about the accuracy of its customer satisfaction reports

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson has questioned the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) method for reporting customer service satisfaction, calling it misleading.

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Pentagon pulls back performance-based contract payment rule

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the new rule revising progress payments and performance-based payment policies for defense contracts is said to have been released prematurely.

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GAO: USPS' retiree health benefits fund could be depleted by 2030

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Government Accountability Office said the Postal Service's retiree health benefits fund has over $60 billion in unfunded liabilities.

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GSA hires Ad Hoc, Fearless to upgrade search.gov portal

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The General Services Administration has hired Ad Hoc and Fearless to upgrade the search.gov platform. The platform supports nearly 2,000 search boxes on Federal websites, free of charge.

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Federal employees may not be able to access social media, personal e-mail if Senate bill becomes law

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee forwards the the Federal Information Systems Safeguards Act, which gives agency leaders the authority to prohibit certain websites.

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Senior Executives Association reminds members of role in stopping workplace harassment

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the SEA wants its members to think about their roles in leadership positions, and play an active part in quickly stopping harassment at their agencies.

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Second agency joins the Centers of Excellence initiative

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Department of Housing and Urban Development becomes the second agency to get help in upgrading its technology and financial management systems under the White House’s marquee IT modernization effort.

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U.S. soldier gets over 11 years in prison for building and detonating chemical weapon

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the soldier detonated the device near Fort Polk in Lousiana, after which two investigators were severely injured analyzing the materials.

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Senators hope DOJ IG will audit GSA’s decision on FBI headquarters

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, six Democratic Senators ask the Justice Department’s Inspector General to look into how the General Services Administration came to its decision to leave the FBI headquarters in D.C.

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Senators want to block Trump’s hopes of privatizing the Postal Service

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, 28 Senators sign on to a resolution to keep the U.S. Postal Service a federal entity.

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State Dept. alerts employees about security breach of e-mail system

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the State Department says the breach potentially exposed the personally identifiable information of about 1 percent of its employees.

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Air Force has plan to grow its force, but not how to pay for it yet

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson lays out plan to add 74 squadrons, but says they do not have specifics for what kind of aircraft it may need to buy.

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USDA launches new website for Centers of Excellence

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Agriculture Department’s progress under the Centers of Excellence initiative can now be tracked through a new website.

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Labor Dept.’s OFCCP to visit hundreds of contractors in the coming months

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Labor Department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs sent letters to 445 vendors alerting them about an upcoming review.

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Status of the Technology Modernization Fund remains unknown

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, federal technology officials continue to wait to see if the Technology Modernization Fund will receive a second year of funding.

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DEA closer to getting new headquarters

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration signs a 15-year lease for the Drug Enforcement Administration's new headquarters.

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Another DMV lawmaker looks to halt USDA move

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton wants a joint session to analyze the legality of the Agriculture Department’s proposal to move the Economic Research Service and the National Institute for Food and Agriculture out of the nation’s capital by the end of 2019.

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2018 Combined Federal Campaign kicks off

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Office of Personnel Management says its starting this year’s CFC with more upgrades to the online donation system.

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DARPA to invest $2 billion in AI technology

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new campaign from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency looks to develop new artificial intelligence technologies.

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Trump hints at agreement to avoid government shutdown

Fri, 07 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, speaking to supporters last night, the President says he’s secured commitments from Congressional leaders to fund a border wall.

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Veterans Health Admin. not ensuring its reusable equipment is cleaned

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Government Accountability Office report finds VHA has no rules or stipulations to ensure the equipment is properly processed after use.

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DoD pushes back deadline for JEDI proposals

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Pentagon says its moving the deadline of its Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure at the request of offerrers.

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Looking for a job? VA has over 45,000 openings

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department releases figures on employment vacancies at the agency as of June 30.

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State Dept. wraps up investigation into possible attack at Cuban embassy

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the agency reviews how it handled a possible sonic attack on its embassy in Havana, Cuba.

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Former security officials irked by Spanberger questionnaire release

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

More than 200 former national security professionals want answers from the Office of Personnel Management and the Director of National Intelligence about how and why the U.S. Postal Service released the confidential national security questionnaire of congressional candidate Abigail Spanberger.

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Senate Democrats target wasteful spending by political appointees

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

Four Democratic senators have introduce a bill that would crack down on wasteful spending by political appointees.

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CFPB: More important than ever for service members to monitor their credit

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reminds service members that changes to the Defense Department's continuous evaluation program mean they need to be more careful about paying their bills on time.

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Army tests thousands military homes for lead poisoning dangers

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new report from Reuters shows over a thousand small children living in base housing had elevated levels of lead in blood tests.

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Panel rules veterans may be able to file class action lawsuits against VA

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the U.S. Court of Appeals opens up the possibility for veterans to file suit collectively, instead of as individuals.

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Senate passes budgets for DoD, HHS, Education, and Labor

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Senate passes a bill funding the Defense Department until the end of September 2019, giving it a total of $675 billion for next year.

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Some NLRB employees offered buyouts and early retirement

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Labor Relations Board says years of flat funding led to an imbalanced staff at N-L-R-B headquarters and its regional offices.

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IG: Veterans Benefits Administration wrongly denied hundreds of military sexual trauma claims

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new report from the Veterans Affairs Department’s inspector general finds VBA improperly processed and denied some 1,300 military sexual trauma claims in 2017.

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Head of Federal Housing Finance Agency accused of sexual harassment by former employee

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Mel Watt, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency is being accused of making unwanted advances towards a former employee who has now gone public with her claims.

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VA Secretary Wilkie hampers unions' use of collective bargaining rights

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie rules unions can no longer use collective bargaining rights when negotiating issues tied to professional conduct and patient care by VA providers.

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GPO looks for another Census vendor after first choice goes bankrupt

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, The Government Publishing Offices takes another stab at finding a vendor to print and mail 2020 census forms.

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Senator worried about potential budget cuts to several IG offices

Thu, 16 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from Senator Claire McCaskill's (D-MO) office says the Trump administration's fiscal 2019 budget plan would substantially cut five Inspectors General office's budgets and give nine IG offices less than what they outlined in their budget requests.

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House Dems want investigation of Trump admin.'s nondisclosure agreements

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, following an inspector general report showing most of the Homeland Security Department's nondisclosure agreements do not comply with federal whistleblower laws, congressional overseers worry about how NDA's are used at other agencies.

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Wilkie begins to assemble new leadership team at VA

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The new Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie said several new people will be taking top-level leadership positions at the agency shortly. Pamela Powers will be the department's new chief of staff, Chris Syrek will be VA's deputy chief of staff, and Jacquelyn Hayes-Byrd will be the acting assistant secretary for human resources and administration, replacing Peter Shelby, who left VA earlier this summer.

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Wilkie begins to assemble new leadership team at VA

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

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OPM suggests agencies allow more telework for DC area feds amid Metro track work

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management is encouraging agencies to let Washington-area employees use telework and other workplace flexibilities for the next two weeks during Metro’s major track work.

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Trump admin wants Space Force up and running by 2020

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon officially announces its plans to establish a sixth branch of the military focused on space.

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GAO: Funding questions remain for President Trump's proposed wall at southern border

Thu, 09 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says Customs and Border Protection is not factoring in certain factors when determining the cost for the proposed wall at the U.S. southern border.

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'Modest decrease' in amount of contractors debarred or suspended last year

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Interagency Suspension and and Debarment Committee's latest report to Congress shows fewer federal contractors were punished in fiscal 2017.

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Embattled agency getting permanent leader

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Ronald Vitello will be nominated as the new permanent director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

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FEMA overpaid temp workers during hurricane response last year

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new report from the Homeland Security Department’s Inspector General highlights FEMA’s workforce issues during disaster deployments.

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NDAA amendment calls for reviewing clearance status of DoD leaders convicted of sexual assault

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, an amendment in the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act calls for investigating whether military or defense leaders found guilty of sexual assault or harassment should retain their security clearances.

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Regulatory action has decreased significantly under Trump administration

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new analysis shows significant regulatory activity has fallen 74% since the new team took office.

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Former VA worker convicted of defrauding disabled veteran

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Veterans Affairs field examiner was hoping to steal nearly $700 thousand from a disabled veteran.

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Millennials are getting less and less mail

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Postal Service’s inspector general says adults between the ages of 18 and 34 received significantly less mail in 2017 than the year before.

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Pentagon now has ‘Do-Not-Buy’ list for risky software companies

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

To listen to the Federal Newscast on your phone or mobile device, subscribe on PodcastOne or Apple Podcasts. The best listening experience on desktop can be found using Chrome, Firefox or Safari.

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Final version of NDAA passes the House

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act clears the House, bringing servicemembers one step closer to a pay raise.

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Bill to streamline HR hiring at Veterans Affairs passes House

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a newly passed House bill would reform the way the Veterans Affairs Department hires human resources people.

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Provision calling for higher buyout values scrapped from NDAA

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the House and Senate could not agree on a provision in the 2019 defense authorization bill calling for $40,000 Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments for federal employees.

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Most agencies are still not fulfilling spending data requirements

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office says only 15 out of 53 agencies met DATA Act requirements for complete, timely, and accurate spending data reports.

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Trump taps healthcare investigator for new VA accountability position

Mon, 23 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the President names Tamara Bonzanto to take over as the new assistant secretary for the Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection at the Veterans Affairs Department.

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Agencies could block employee access to social media, email under proposed law

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

A House bill has been passed out of committee to give agency heads the power to restrict employee access to certain websites, including Facebook and personal emails. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Ala.) said his bill will improve cybersecurity and cut down on information leaks.

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Lawmakers battle over letting US Postal Service offer financial services

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

House lawmakers have offered competing bills on the future of a proposal to allow the U.S. Postal Service to allow banking and other financial services.

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Internal poll shows FBI employees lack confidence in the bureau’s leadership

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

FBI employees have reported a sharp drop in their confidence in Director Christopher Wray and his senior leaders. The findings undercut President Trump's claim that the FBI was in turmoil and its agents had lost confidence in James Comey before the president fired him.

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Industry groups urge Congress to create a speedy security clearance process

Tue, 17 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

Defense industry trade groups are urging the House and Senate armd services committee to reform laws needed to speed up the background checks for mission-critical federal jobs and contractors.

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VA urged to stem vet suicides by streamlining the hiring of more mental health workers

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The Department of Veterans Affairs has been urged to stem the rise in veteran suicides by streamlining the hiring of mental health professionals.

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Senate confirms ethics veteran and unexpected nominee Emory Rounds to head agency

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The Senate has confirmed Emory Rounds as the new director of the Office of Government Ethics. Rounds has been at Ethics since 2009, and his nomination was a pleasant surprise for ethics experts because of the high profile clashes the office has had with President Trump.

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In search of a quorum, hearings for MSPB nominees are set to begin

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The Senate has announced long-awaited hearings for three nominees to the Merit System Protection Board. The agency that handles appeals from the Civil Service Commission has lack a quorum to do business for more than 18 months.

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House Dems increase pressure on President Trump to rescind executive orders

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

House Democrats are increasing their pressure on President Donald Trump to rescind his recent executive orders on official time and collective bargaining.

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CBP: Stories of families being separated at ports of entry are false

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Todd Owen, the Customs and Border Protection executive assistant commissioner in its Field Operations Office, said CBP rarely separates immigrant families at ports of entry.

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Former military leaders call on President Trump to end ban on transgender troops

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, almost three dozen former military officers and officials say the ban undermines national security.

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FDA having trouble retaining supervisors and managers

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, according to an assessment of its own workforce, nearly have of senior leaders at the Food and Drug Administration are eligible to retire in the next two years.

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New program lets young military truck drivers put skills to use in the private sector

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Transportation Department is letting a “limited number” of young veterans and military reservists who’ve obtained the military equivalent of a commercial drivers license operate commercial trucks on domestic highways.

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Bill in Congress tries again to secure parental leave for feds

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a DMV Congresswoman introduces legislation to make sure federal employees get at least up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave.

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State Department looks to update Consular Affairs IT with big contract

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the State Department plans to spend almost a billion dollars to modernize four key services under the Bureau of Consular Affairs.

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Former ICE chief counsel sentenced for stealing identities of immigrants

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Raphael Sanchez, former chief counsel for Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s Office of Principal Legal Advisor used the identities of undocumented immigrants to open fraudulent lines of credit.

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Rep. Comstock offers legislation to give feds paid parental leave

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

Rep. Barbara Comstock (R-Va.) has offered legislation to give federal employees up to 12 weeks of paid leave for the birth, adoption or foster placement of a child.

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Reform taxes IRS resources for next filing season

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson reported that changes in the new tax law will create hurdles for IRS in preparing for next filing season.

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A ‘glass ceiling’ still exists for women in federal law enforcement

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, women still only make up a fraction of federal law enforcement officials. The Justice Department's Office of Inspector General says it found women accounted for only 16 percent of criminal investigators in DOJ’s law enforcement components and were more likely to be passed up for promotions in their agencies.

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House Budget Committee renews efforts to cut retirement benefits

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In its 2019 proposal, the House Budget Committee wants federal employees to contribute more toward a defined benefit retirement plan. And, it again seeks to end the special Social Security supplement for federal workers who retire before age 62.

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Senate Democrats, union leaders push back against Trump workforce orders

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

Three more Senate Democrats have added their voices to leaders of government worker unions in opposing President Trump's recent worforce executve orders. Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) wrote to the president saying they're willing to work with the executive branch to modernize the federal workforce, but they say those orders threaten attempts to build better labor management relationships. At least two unions have filed suit to stop the president's actions.

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Senate Appropriations passes civilian employee pay hike for 2019

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

All hope is not lost for federal civilian employees looking for a pay raise in 2019. The Senate Appropriations Committee has cleared the Financial Services and General Government bill with a recommendation an increase in pay by 1.9 percent next fiscal year.

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Now that it's law, veterans service organizations want Congress to actually pay for VA MISSION Act

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, over 30 veterans service organizations ask Senate and House Veterans Affairs leadership to help secure specific funding for the VA MISSION Act.

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Senators weigh in on Trump’s federal workforce executive orders

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, 45 Democratic Senators write to President Trump to express their concern with the White House’s recent trio of federal workforce executive orders on employee accountability, official time, and collective bargaining.

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Numbers for women in federal law enforcement lagging

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new study by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission highlights the trouble federal agencies are having recruiting and hiring women to law enforcement positions.

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FAA safety inspectors improperly allowed planes to fly without critical safety information

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a whistleblower and the Office of Special Counsel say inspectors with the Federal Aviation Administration cleared planes for take off even though they did not have all of the needed safety information.

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Contracting officers must now put language prohibiting Kaspersky products and services in solicitations

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Federal Acquisition Regulation Council created a new rule to enforce the Homeland Security Department's ban on the Russian cybersecurity company.

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VA makes annual nursing home ratings public for the first time

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department publishes the ratings of its 130 community living centers.

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Interior IG: Insider cyber risks threaten nation’s hydropower dams

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The Interior Department's inspector general reported at least two of the nation's largest hydropower dams face a high cyber risk from insider threats.

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House Dems slam EPA's Pruitt for allegedly delaying FOIA requests

Tue, 12 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democrats continued their campaign to oust Environmental Protection Agency administrator Scott Pruitt. This time, Pruitt is the target of a report that suggests he purposely delayed the release of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) documents.

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Taxpayer advocate reports IRS is still unfairly targeting those in poverty

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson reports low-income Americans are still being targeted by private debt collectors hired by the IRS, despite her year-old recommendation to stop the practice.

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Former DoD chief Ash Carter calls Space Force a 'bad idea'

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter calls the idea of a separate branch of the military devoted to space is a bad idea. Carter says creating a space force would make the domain even more separated from the military branches than it is now. “We need to head in the direction of integration, he said speaking at Mitre’s 2018 Space Computing and Connected Enterprise Resiliency Conference in Massachusetts. The Defense Department under Carter tried to do that with the creation of the Joint Interagency Combined Space Operations Center, which is now called the National Defense Space Center.

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Alliant 2 contracting vehicle to start accepting orders

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, after winning the four remaining protests holding up the multiple award IT services governmentwide contract, the General Services Administration says agencies will soon be able to order IT services from the more than 60 vendors.

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Bill to put publicize IG recommendations passes Senate

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a bill out of the Senate would require all open recommendations from agency inspectors general that are over a year old to posted to a searchable website.

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Former Defense Intelligence Officer arrested for working with Chinese government

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Justice Department says a former Defense Intelligence Officer received at least $800,000 to act as an agent for the Chinese government.

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Federal employee volunteer hours can now go toward Combined Federal Campaign

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management releases guidance to help employees convert volunteer hours into credit for the CFC.

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Air Force gives commanders more options for promoting Airmen

Fri, 01 Jun 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Air Force updates its Stripes for Exceptional Performers Program used to promote those who show potential.

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Senators hope to save cybersecurity coordinator position

Thu, 31 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 18 Democratic Senators ask National Security adviser John Bolton to reconsider his decision to absorb the White House cybersecurity coordinator role into other existing positions

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CBO: Trump administration's proposed changes to federal retirement could save $109B

Wed, 30 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office reviewed how much money the government would save if Congress implements the White House's new proposals for the federal retirement system.

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Air Force plans to welcome back retired pilots to fill manpower shortages

Tue, 29 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force said it could recall as many as 1,000 retirees to active duty as it aims to reduce its growing deficit of pilots.

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Border Patrol Union unsatisfied with National Guard's limited role at Southern Border

Mon, 28 May 2018 09:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the president of the Nation Border Patrol Council tells the LA Times deploying the National Guard to the U.S. southern border has been a waste of time this go around.

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Trump administration wants to let the space industry soar freely

Fri, 25 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new proposal rolls back what the White House deems over-regulation of the commercial space launch industry.

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Senate bill calls for small defense contractors getting paid quicker

Thu, 24 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, bipartisan legislation in the Senate would shorten the deadline for the Defense department to pay defense contractors who work with small businesses.

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Latest FITARA scorecard shows ups and downs

Wed, 23 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee releases the expanded Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act report card today, five agencies saw their grades go up, 11 saw them go down.

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Air Force moving pilots back to U.S. to reduce burden on families

Tue, 22 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Air Force has started to move some of its pilots back to the U.S. as part of an effort to reduce the strain on those servicemembers and their families.

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State Department IG investigating reassignments of high level personnel

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, following a request from Congressional regulators, the State Department’s Inspector General is looking into whether personnel moves at the agency were politically motivated.

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IG: DoD made $500M in questionable payments to contractors working in Afghanistan

Fri, 18 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Pentagon’s inspector general finds the Defense Department routinely reimbursed contractors for the expenses they claimed without examining their supporting documentation.

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GOP Senators hope to avoid government shutdown

Wed, 16 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, wary of another last-minute budget deal, seven Republican Senators ask Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to expedite floor consideration of funding bills and nominees before the end of the fiscal year.

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VA MISSION Act passes the House

Wed, 16 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the House passes the VA MISSION Act which would give the Veterans Affairs Department a long awaited alternative to the Choice program and consolidates all seven community care programs.

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FedRAMP, Cloud Security Alliance creating new Joint Certification System

Tue, 15 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Federal Risk Authorization and Management Program and the Cloud Security Alliance announce the creation of FedSTAR to offer mutual recognition between the two security programs.

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VA doctors, now allowed to treat patients in other states via telehealth

Mon, 14 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, a rule allowing Veterans Affairs providers to administer healthcare across state lines using virtual technology becomes finalized.

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GAO: Military provisions could be reducing competition for Defense contracts

Fri, 11 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Government Accountability Office finds 75 percent of of the Defense Department’s IDIQ type contracts were only open to a single contractor.

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DHS considering punishments for contractors still using Kaspersky Lab products

Wed, 09 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, officials from the Homeland Security Department tell lawmakers the agency is working across government to figure out consequences for not following the binding operational directive.

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Proposal to track executive branch's use of military aircraft gets nixed

Wed, 09 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the House Armed Services Committee kills a proposal aimed at exposing more details about government officials’ travel on military aircraft.

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Trump administration wants to cut $15 billion in unused funds

Tue, 08 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, President Trump asks Congress for permission to reduce spending by $15 billion, all coming from unobligated funds.

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USPS wants centralized mailbox locations for new addresses

Mon, 07 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, a policy update from USPS emphasizes its preference for so-called clustered box units in new housing developments, instead of door-to-door.

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OMB can’t find files containing public comments on reorganization initiative

Fri, 04 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, responding to a Freedom of Information Act request, the Office of Management and Budget was unable to locate the hundreds of thousands of public comments and recommendations for its reorganization plan.

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Oops, another Hatch Act violation by a political appointee

Wed, 02 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Office of Special Counsel found that FCC Commissioner Michael O'Reilly violated the Hatch Act stumping for conservative candidates during a speech.

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IG: Energy's CFO went $16 million over budget in 2017

Wed, 02 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Energy Department's Inspector General finds the agency's Chief Financial Officer moved too much money over to the Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability account.

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Lawsuit against VA claims Trump broke the law with Wilkie appointment

Tue, 01 May 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, two organizations are suing the Veterans Affairs Department over the White House’s decision to appoint defense undersecretary Robert Wilkie to be acting VA secretary.

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Veterans Choice program faces another fiscal cliff

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, acting Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie urges Congress to take action to permanently fund the Veterans Choice program.

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House conservatives revive efforts to cut federal pay raises, create an ‘at will’ workforce

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, conservative lawmakers have proposed eliminating all automatic pay raises for federal employees, while creating a workforce that can be removed, demoted or suspended “at will.”

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FOI documents show CBP's long-term problem with corruption

Thu, 26 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, recently-released documents indicated more than 200 Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees have been arrested on charges related to corruption in the past 14 years. At least 13 of those arrests have come since the start of the Trump Administration.

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House Dems threaten subpoenas for Trump Administration whistleblower documents

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Democratic leaders on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee want to subpoena documents the Justice and Homeland Security departments have failed to supply related to possible violations involving whistleblowers.

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OPM's Pon seeks important role for human capital council

Tue, 24 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

The director of the Office of Personnel Management said he wants to restore the importance of the Chief Human Capital Officers Council. Jeff Pon has asked agency and department heads to put very senior level representatives on the council that strategizes human resource policy for government employees.

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DRAIN Act would move non-security agencies out of Washington

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Senate lawmaker has proposed legislation that would seek to move all non-security federal agencies out of the Washington, D.C. area by 2029.

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Former cyclist Lance Armstrong ordered to pay Postal Service $5 million

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Justice Department settles a lawsuit that alleges Armstrong violated sponsorship agreements his cycling team had with USPS.

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Pentagon officials describe impact sequestration had on DoD facilities

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 08:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment Lucian Niemeyer tells members of Congress about the effect 6 years of sequestration had on military buildings.

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Vice President Pence nominates Commerce Department for maintaining safety in space

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the National Space Council, led by Vice President Mike Pence, will recommend giving Commerce the task of maintaining space situational awareness to be shared with civil, commercial and military users of satellites.

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Pentagon gives details on plan to send National Guard to U.S. southern border

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Defense Department will be sending up to 4,000 troops to U.S.-Mexico border to assist the Homeland Security Department.

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Pentagon to set up new office focused on advancing artificial intelligence

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department's research and engineering chief says the office's creation to counter advancements made in the field by U.S. adversaries.

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President Trump launches task force to study Postal Service

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new executive order assembles a team to look into how USPS prices its package delivery services.

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House Dems worry Secretary Ryan Zinke will thwart diverse workforce initiatives

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, after media reports said the Interior Secretary made dismissive comments about workforce diversity, 28 members of Congress send a letter to Ryan Zinke asking he rethink them.

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Adm. Zukunft: Coast Guard finally where it needs to be budget-wise

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, after spending 2017 with low budgets, the head of the Coast Guard says his service is now punching at the middleweight class.

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Multiple agency leaders agree to speed up reviews of infrastructure projects

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, President Donald Trump presided over the signing of the “One Federal Decision” memorandum of understanding, in which seven of his cabinet secretaries took part.

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Bid protests must be filed online starting in May

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Government Accountability Office says it’s launching its new electronic bid protest docketing system May 1.

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VA clarifies, no current effort to privatize agency

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Veterans Affairs Department puts out a news release, denying any internal plans to move towards privatization.

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Thousands of Google employees protest working with the Pentagon

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, over 3,100 employees send a letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai asking he cancel a Defense Department pilot program which uses the company’s technology.

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Veterans organization wants new acting VA secretary

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, AMVETS is urging President Donald Trump to put Veterans Affairs Deputy Secretary Tom Bowman in charge while his choice for the position awaits Senate confirmation.

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Sequestration could return in 2020 without congressional action

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, while Congress has adjusted spending caps to allow increases in spending, the Congressional Budget Office warns agencies will have to make cuts again if the caps aren’t adjusted beyond 2019.

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VA chief counsel bent ethics rules to get wife hired

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new Inspector General report finds a chief counsel in Veterans Affairs’ Office of General Counsel hatched a scheme to get his wife a job in one of the teams he managed.

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No more official portraits of high level politicians

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, President Trump signs the EGO Act into law, banning federal funds from being used for oil paintings of federal officials.

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Members of Congress want GAO to investigate reassignments at the Interior Department

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, oversight lawmakers want the Government Accountability Office to look into Interior's decision to reassign 33 executives.

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Think you could run a NASA mission?

Wed, 28 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the space agency says it’s hiring new flight directors and you don’t necessarily need previous experience to apply.

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Thousands of VA employees have not undergone required background checks

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, a new inspector general report finds managers at the Veterans Affairs Department are not reviewing background investigations in a timely manner.

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Congressional oversight leaders ask NASA for more info on official time use

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the leaders of both Congressional oversight committees are not satisfied with the data on official time NASA provided.

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Proposals to reform the IRS are on the way

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee Kevin Brady (R-TX) says there will be a bill next month to begin restructuring the IRS.

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Congressman wants federal bonuses published

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, Representative Mark Sanford (R-SC) says the public should be able to see how much federal employees earn from performance bonuses.

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Lawmakers concerned with OPM’s lack of IT upgrades

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, three years after the Office of Personnel’s data breach, members of the House Oversight Committee say the agency still hasn’t done much to modernize its IT.

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Bipartisan bill calls for giving 'non-critical sensitive' defense workers due process

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three lawmakers want legislation to overturn a 2013 court decision which prevents some defense department employees from appealing to the Merit Systems Protection Board.

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Another potential buyer for CSRA

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, CACI International makes an offer to buy IT contractor CSRA after it had already agreed to a deal with General Dynamics.

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Hackers successfully steal hundreds of government credit card numbers

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Defense Department says malicious hackers managed to steal the credit card numbers of several hundred people who’d been issued government travel cards.

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Sen. Bernie Sanders takes aim at ‘excessive defense contractor compensation’

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, Senator and 2016 presidential candidate Bernie Sanders wants to know what Defense Secretary James Mattis is doing to address Pentagon waste and high contractor pay.

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Trump’s pick to take over CIA faces powerful skeptic in the Senate

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, Senator John McCain (R-AZ) says Gina Haspell will have to explain her involvement in the CIA’s enhanced interrogation program before he’ll vote for her confirmation.

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Acting IG’s can be just as effective as permanent leaders

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office polled nine acting inspectors general and their staffs to find out how operations are effected by not having a permanent IG in place.

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Agencies team up to destroy asteroid potentially heading for Earth

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 03:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, three agencies are working on a spacecraft that could destroy an asteroid with a nuclear weapon.

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Tighter quarters could be coming to your agency

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, 24 agencies plan to consolidate their office space in the coming years according to the Government Accountability Office.

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New social media guidance to help feds comply with the Hatch Act

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the Office of Special Counsel updates its its guidance regarding when federal employees’ use of social media violates the Hatch Act.

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National Background Investigations Bureau to set up another surge office to help with backlog

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, 18 members of the NBIB will travel to Hill Air Force Base in March to help with the backlog of pending security clearances.

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Potential partnership between Census, USPS gets axed

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee would like Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to explain why he decided to nix an idea to have the Postal Service work with the Census Bureau.

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National Science Foundation unveils sexual harassment reporting requirements for universities

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new policy from the National Science Foundation will require grant recipients to report the findings of any sexual harassment investigation against a researcher.

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Congressman wants name of every non-essential employee

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, Rep. Ted Budd's (R-N.C.) Essential Act of 2018 would require agencies to submit a list of all employees deemed non-essential during a government shutdown to the Office of Management and Budget.

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Marine Corps Reserve accidentally releases personal information of over 21,000 people

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, a botched email compromises the personal information of thousands of Marines, sailors and civilians, including bank account numbers.

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New identity management approach for USAJobs

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast on Federal News Radio, the USAJobs.gov website is among the first citizen facing sites to use the new Login.gov identity management service.

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OMB: Taxpayers still gain more than they pay from federal regulations

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast from Federal News Radio, the Office of Management and Budget’s annual draft report to Congress on the costs and benefits of federal regulations finds the benefits outweigh the costs.

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New incentives for Navy sailors who extend sea duty tours

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Navy is hoping to encourage and reward sailors who extend deployments in Japan, Guam, and Spain.

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Law enforcement agencies are watching the gun debates

Fri, 23 Feb 2018 11:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, law enforcement agencies are watching the gun debates ... wondering how they'll carry out possible new regulations.

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Deadline set for Navy’s move to Windows 10

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Navy will need several more months to finish its migration to Windows 10.

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Justice Department sets up new Cyber-Digital Task Force

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Attorney General Jeff Sessions is forming a Cyber-Digital Task Force to make recommendations on policy and process changes across the Justice Department.

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Some veterans’ groups still support Shulkin

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, despite facing recent scrutiny, some veterans organizations still feel Dr. David Shulkin is the best person to run the Veterans Affairs Department.

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OPM issues guidance on back pay for hours long shutdown

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast from Federal News Radio, the Office of Personnel Management tells agencies they may need to be flexible when applying retroactive pay for federal employees during the most recent government shutdown.

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Energy to stand up new cyber office

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Energy Department is elevating its efforts to oversee and respond to cyber threats against the nation’s critical infrastructure.

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Office of Government Ethics gives pep talk to federal employees, ‘ we know how to rebuild the public’s trust’

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, in the wake of a report which says corruption is getting worse, Acting Director of the Office of Government Ethics reminds federal employees about the oath they take to perform their duties.

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Kaspersky Lab challenging Congress’ ban on it’s products

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Russian based federal contractor says the provision in the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act banning it from federal networks is unconstitutional.

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Trump wants to outsource some U.S. space operations

Tue, 13 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Trump administration’s plan for NASA emphasizes commercial services to support U.S. space objectives.

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Democrats pushing back against Trump’s military parade idea

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, Democratic lawmakers are worried the President’s desired military parade would cost too much money.

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OPM lays out strategies for agencies to implement Trump administration priorities

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management releases the first Quadrennial Federal Workforce Priorities Report.

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DHS needs more cybersecurity workers while also figuring out where to put them

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, a new report for the Government Accountability Office critiques the Homeland Security Department’s implementation of the Cybersecurity Workforce Assessment Act.

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House votes to change how Congress deals with sexual harassment cases

Wed, 07 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill to make sure Congressional members use their own money to settle with harassment victims passes the House unanimously.

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You may have to disclose if you own any Bitcoins when applying for a security clearance

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Defense Security Service says it’s considering whether or not to provide guidance on asking about cryptocurrency ownership during the clearance process.

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New tool to help agencies request bigger incentive payouts

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 05:00:00 -0000

In today’s Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management produces a series of templates to help agencies make requests for recruitment, retention, and relocation incentives more easily.

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Congressman threatens to subpoena DHS over Kaspersky questions

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative Lamar Smith is not satisfied with the answers he received from the Homeland Security Department on how they are making sure Kaspersky Lab products are out of federal networks.

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CBO: Debt ceiling will be reached by late March

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office says the Treasury Department will run out of funds by late March unless its raised.

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Anti-fraud measures at IRS seem to be working

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 07:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the changes Congress ordered at the Internal Revenue Service seem to be helping the agency better identify fraudulent claims.

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IG: DHS needs better way of making sure suspended contractors actually get suspended

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 06:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Homeland Security Departments Office of Inspector General finds the agency has no centralized database to make sure suspended companies don't compete for new contracts.

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Senator looking for info on DHS passback with Office of Management and Budget

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Claire McCaskill wants to know more about OMB's plans for the Homeland Security Department, with a potential pay freeze for civilian employees on the table.

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Office of Special Counsel has management advice for Veterans Affairs

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Special Counsel presents its findings from two investigations involving employee misconduct and negligence at the Veterans Affairs Department.

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Pompeo: 'Reckless' to keep CIA saddled with too much bureaucracy

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 14:22:00 -0000

One year into his role, CIA Director Mike Pompeo says about 40 percent of the decisions previously made at the director level are no longer made by him.

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House Dems want to broaden investigation into fake comments

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:22:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Democratic leaders want the investigation into fake comments on Federal Communications Commission rule making expanded to other agencies.

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New GSA rule updates acquisition policy

Wed, 24 Jan 2018 11:15:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, rhe General Services Administration and unveiled a final rule allowing incidental materials to be included on individual task orders.

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DFAS says timing uncertain for post-shutdown back pay

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 11:19:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Finance Accounting Service is telling those in the military it's unclear when they will get paid that time.

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SBA cited for failure to respond to inquiries after Hurricane Harvey

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 10:46:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Small Business Administration's inspector general cites the agency for failing to respond to phone calls and emails in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

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Congressmen looking to make sure feds and servicemembers are paid during possible shutdown

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 07:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with the possibility of a government shutdown growing, members of Congress want to make sure federal employees and members of the military receive reimbursement.

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After SpaceX failure, NASA says it will strengthen requirements on space launch contractors

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 04:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, NASA officials tell a House space subcommittee its plans for making sure its astronauts are safe when using a commercial space launch vehicle.

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Former CIA officer arrested for holding secure information

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 07:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department gets a hold of a former CIA case officer its been trying to apprehend since 2012.

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Working group launched to begin review of protections for federal court employees

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 06:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts establishes a Federal Judiciary Workplace Conduct Working Group to look at what safeguards are in place to protect federal court workers from misconduct and harassment.

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Secretary Zinke reveals plans for Interior's future

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke lays out what he has in mind for reorganizing the Interior Department.

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Veterans Affairs publishes how many opioids it's prescribing online

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, to show its progress in reducing long-term use of them, the Veterans Affairs Department posts the rates of opioid prescriptions for each of its medical centers online.

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Even IRS watchdogs agree the agency needs more money

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 07:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson told Congress the IRS lack of funding is the root of many of the agency's problems with customer service.

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USDA cutting down on telework for all employees

Wed, 10 Jan 2018 06:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new HR directive to employees at the Agriculture Department makes severe changes to the agency's telework policy.

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Postal Service to offer thousands of employees early retirement

Tue, 09 Jan 2018 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in an attempt to rightsize the agency's workforce, the Postal Services is the latest agency to offer early retirement to many of its long-time employees.

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CBP searched through record number of electronic devices in 2017

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Customs and Border Protection said it reviewed over 30 thousand electronic devices last year, while also announcing changes it has planned for the search process.

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Pay freeze for VP, senior political appointees to stay in place for 2018

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 07:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, unless Congress makes a change in any upcoming spending bills, the pay freeze placed on the Vice President and other senior political appointees will stay in place for this year.

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OMB Director hits Capitol Hill hoping to hammer out 2018 budget

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 07:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Office of Management and Budget director Mick Mulvaney pushes for a clean funding bill before the current continuing resolution expires on January 19.

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NSA officials worry agency is facing brain drain

Wed, 03 Jan 2018 06:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Washington Post reports senior officials at the National Security Agency are concerned about the departure of top talent in areas like cybersecurity.

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Justice Department, DEA to try new tactics in fight against opioids

Tue, 02 Jan 2018 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department as well as the Drug Enforcement Agency are implementing new measures in it's ongoing battle to stem the tide of opioid addiction.

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NIST looks to private sector for help securing IoT devices

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Institute of Standards and Technology will soon start hosting events to exchange ideas on methods and technologies to ensure Internet of Things devices are secure.

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Obamacare enrollment for 2018 tops 8.7 million, exceeds expectations

Fri, 29 Dec 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The Obama-era health care law President Trump has called a disaster is actually exceeding expectations.

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Trump told Census Bureau leadership vacuum could impact 2020 headcount

Thu, 28 Dec 2017 19:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Trump hears from two Democratic senators concerned about the lack of leadership at the Census Bureau.

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High-level action needed to address harassment complaints at Justice

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 22:17:00 -0000

In Today's Federal Newscast, The Justice Department inspector general reportedly called for high level action to address the way DoJ handles sexual harassment complaints by employees.

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IRS blames drop in criminal investigations on manpower shortfalls

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 01:17:00 -0000

In Today's Federal Newscast, the IRS blames staffing shortages for a drop in investigative cases.

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Report: Over 700 employees have left EPA

Mon, 25 Dec 2017 07:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, according to report from the New York Times and ProPublica, a large amount of employees have quit, retired from or accepted buy outs to part ways with the Environmental Protection Agency.

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Lawmakers ask Secretary Tillerson to clarify if State and USAID will merge

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 06:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, 16 members of Congress want answers about the future of the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development.

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DoD may have a long road ahead to audit readiness

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 05:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department's Inspector General finds serious deficiencies with the ways the Defense Finance and Accounting Service accumulates and reports transactions involving agencies outside the military services.

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Veterans Affairs IG: VA's Real Time Location System being mismanaged with lack of oversight

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 08:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the system Veterans Affairs wants to use for automating certain medical procedures and tracking and monitoring medical supplies is not being properly monitored according to the agency's inspector general.

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CBP gets industry help with hiring plans

Tue, 19 Dec 2017 07:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Customs and Border Protection awards a large contract for help hiring 5,000 new Border Patrol agents.

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Zinke fires four senior managers after internal survey reveals harassment problems

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 06:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke posted a video announcement to go with the results of a department-wide survey which showed many workers face gender-based and sexual harassment.

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Navy readiness review shows troubling statistics

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 09:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a readiness review prompted by this year's deadly collisions in the Pacific finds the Navy has serious supply and demand problems.

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GAO: Transportation Dept. violated anti-lobbying provision with a retweet

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 06:17:00 -0000

The Government Accountability Office finds DOT a provision in the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act when it retweeted and liked a tweet supporting legislation.

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FCC will work with FTC to protect consumers in post-net neutrality landscape

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 05:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with the expected adoption of the Restoring Internet Freedom Order by the Federal Communications Commission, it makes an agreement with the Federal Trade Commission to make sure internet service providers don't abuse their new allowances.

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Congressional reorganization of DHS gets thumbs up from new secretary

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 08:17:00 -0000

A bill calling for a new branch of the Homeland Security Department to focus solely on cybersecurity and infrastructure passes the House.

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Zinke calls report about personal use of government helicopters a 'total fabrication'

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 12:55:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has attacked reports questioning his use of National Park Service helicopters for political events.

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Agencywide audit of Defense Department begins

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 07:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department Office of Inspector General says it has started the arduous process of reviewing the Pentagon's finances.

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Backlash forces VA to halt plan to divert funding for homeless vets

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 12:45:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs said its plan to slash funding for a key program that provides housing to homeless veterans has been put on hold.

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FEMA employees may see pay reduced for working too much

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 07:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, many employees with the Federal Emergency Management Agency who worked overtime aiding in recent recovery efforts could have to give some of that money back because of budget caps.

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CBO Report: Trump's proposed military buildup will cost $683 billion more

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 06:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Congressional Budget Office analysis finds the Trump administration military goals to improve readiness and size will increase spending by 12% from 2018 to 2027.

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Congress extends deadline for GSA to create plan for FBI headquarters

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 05:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration gets a 60 day extension to figure out the direction it wants to take with the FBI headquarters.

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GAO suspends contractor from filing bid protests for the second time

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 08:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, just three months after its first suspension expired, Latvian Connection is once again banned from filing any new bid protests

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Sexual harassment training now required for members of the House and staff

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 07:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a resolution is approved in the House, requiring the training happen within 180 days after this Congress' second session begins.

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Federal judge's ruling allows Mulvaney to take over CFPB

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 06:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the tug-of-war for leadership of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has swung in the Trump administrations favor, as a federal judge rules against a restraining order to stop Mulvaney from becoming acting director.Jeff Sessions wants the agencies to review the system in place for making sure firearms are restricted.

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GAO slams VA's failure to report poor performing doctors

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 13:01:00 -0000

In Today Federal Newscast, the Veterans Affairs Department failed to report 90 percent of its poorest-performing doctors to a national database.

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Attorney General orders FBI and ATF to review National Instant Criminal Background Check System

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 09:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, citing the recent mass shooting in Texas, Attorney General Jeff Sessions wants the agencies to review the system in place for making sure firearms are restricted.

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Online petition asks the Justice Department to take action against sexual assault

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 12:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a "We the People" petition to the White House demands the Justice Department take action against sexual assault.

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Veterans Day indictment for former Veterans Affairs employee

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 03:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new inscriptions on the Marine Memorial honor Marines who have died in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Marine memorial gets new inscriptions to honor Middle East conflicts

Thu, 23 Nov 2017 11:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new inscriptions on the Marine Memorial honor Marines who have died in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Slow-killing parasite linked to cancer in some Vietnam vets

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 13:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Hundreds of veterans have a new reason to believe they may be dying from a silent bullet. Test results show some men may have been infected by a slow-killing parasite while fighting in the jungles of Southeast Asia.

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Who is the highest paid federal employee? Hint: It's not Donald Trump

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 13:25:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Bill Johnson, President and ECO of the Tennessee Valley Authority is the highest paid federal employee at nearly $5 million annually.

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Trump signs new, flexible TSP Act into law

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 13:13:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Trumps signs the TSP Modernization Act, giving federal workers more flexibility in managing withdrawals from the retirement savings.

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House committee backs westward move for Interior employees

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 13:58:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Republican leaders on the House Natural Resources Committee have written to President Trump in support of an Interior Department re-organization.

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Hatch cancels plan to end TSP catch-up contributions

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 13:44:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an amendment to the proposed Senate tax reform legislation to eliminate federal employee retirement savings catch-up payments has been dropped

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Latest IT report card means more agencies could get grounded

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 13:38:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has given lower grades to six agencies on their latest Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act report cards.

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Pentagon IG asks why civilian law enforcement didnt get Texas shooters court martial records

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 13:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagons inspector general has begun its formal review of the military's procedures for sending criminal record information to the FBI.

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Foreign hackers are helping DoD find cyber vulnerabilities

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 13:15:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon credits hundreds of hackers around the world for helping it find thousands of cybersecurity vulnerabilities over the past year.

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Veterans Day indictment for former Veterans Affairs employee

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 06:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former employee of the Veterans Affairs Department has been charged with wire fraud and bribery.

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Diplomatic workers' group warns, State Department leadership being 'depleted'

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 05:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, The American Foreign Service Association pens a letter to members citing its president's concerns about the current state of the State Department workforce.

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GAO: Most agencies struggle with incremental approach to IT projects

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 08:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new Government Accountability Office report has found many agencies are having trouble implementing one of the key parts of the Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act.

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Large turnout for CIO Council's first job fair

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 04:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, more than 30 agencies met with more than 1,200 applicants coming from all over the country to fill cyber and IT vacancies in the federal government.

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Pelosi supports training for Congress to prevent sexual harassment

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 13:17:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Democratic leader said she hopes Congress will move quickly to pass legislation requiring lawmakers and their staff to complete training to prevent sexual harassment.

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VA aims to RAMP-up claims review process for vets

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 11:58:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced the launch of the Rapid Appeals Modernization Program (RAMP) to give veterans more options in claims disagreements.

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Congress to consider panel to plan for severe weather

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congress will consider creation of a top-level panel to prepare for major weather events.

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OPM creates yet another emergency leave transfer program

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 07:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management sets up another leave transfer program for federal employees to help their colleagues impacted by wildfires in California. This is the fourth one OPM has done since September.

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Program which oversees government biotoxins has major safety concerns

Tue, 31 Oct 2017 06:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Government Accountability Report set for release today shows the Federal Select Agent Program is facing many personnel and safety problems which led to pathogens being inadvertently released from its possession.

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There is currently no White House plan for dealing with President Trump's conflicts of interest

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 09:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bombshell report from minority members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee shows the Trump administration lacks a formal plan to address the President's financial conflicts of interest.

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Trump names David Kautter to head IRS and lead his push for tax reform

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 12:43:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Trump has named Treasury Department executive David Kautter as the interim leader of IRS, and to lead his push for new tax reform legislation.

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White House looks to ignite innovation in commercial drone use

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 05:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new drone Integration Pilot Program aims to update U.S. aviation regulations to let companies test out new uses for unmanned aircraft systems.

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Visitors to popular National Parks may experience different kind of hike

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 04:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Park Service has issued a proposal to increase entrance fee prices at a handful of the nation's most popular parks.

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Bill to enhance Congress' oversight of agencies passes House

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 07:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill to give congressional committees more tools in making agencies comply with subpoenas gets through its first legislative hurdle.

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House Oversight Committee may subpoena agencies not providing info on private email use

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 06:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) sent letters to 16 agencies demanding they respond to committee inquiries about leaders using private email accounts for official business.

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IG: NASA made 'insufficient progress' to improve IT governance

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 09:02:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an audit by NASA's Office of Inspector General said the agency's Office of the Chief Information Officer may be unable to manage it's IT assets.

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OMB orders agencies to gauge cyber risk

Wed, 18 Oct 2017 07:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget wants agencies to use the new approach for measuring cyber risk to see where they stand for 2018.

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House bill would give federal hourly employees locality pay adjustments

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 06:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill introduced in the House would apply locality pay zones to federal employees working for hourly wages.

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OPM's new Combined Federal Campaign website delayed by hurricanes

Mon, 16 Oct 2017 09:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management said it hasn't launched its new donation site because many charities are still dealing with the aftermath of the recent hurricanes.

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House Veterans Affairs Committee debates bill to put VA facilities under BRAC-like review

Sat, 14 Oct 2017 01:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Veterans Affairs Committee introduces the Asset and Infrastructure Review Act, which calls for VA to set up a commission to look at old and underused VA facilities.

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House passes bill to give TSP participants more withdrawal options

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 04:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill to let Thrift Savings Plan participants make more withdrawals from the TSP passes the House and heads to the Senate.

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Treasury Sec. Mnuchin, not out of the woods yet for travel habits

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 07:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Treasury Department's inspector general is opening a second investigation into Secretary Steve Mnuchin's travels.

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New OPM course to help managers improve employee engagement

Tue, 10 Oct 2017 06:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management has a new online course to agencies comply with reorganization orders.

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TIGTA: IRS didn't just target conservative groups

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 12:20:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administrations finds the Internal Revenue Service had many criteria for further investigating groups applying for tax exempt status.

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Senator wants answers on why Congress is exempt from 'Obamacare'

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 04:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal News Radio, Senator Ron Johnson is threatening to subpoena documents from the Office of Personnel Management if they don't provide the reason for a regulation exempting members of Congress from the Affordable Care Act.

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Tammy Flanagan: Navigating federal retirement paperwork

Thu, 05 Oct 2017 11:55:00 -0000

In the federal government, nothing happens until you fill out a form. That's certainly true of retirement, a topic on quite a few federal minds these days. With a rundown on the paperwork you need to keep in mind, federal retirement expert Tammy Flanagan.

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White House pulls nominations for Air Force and Army general counsel

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 05:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the Trump administration sent up 27 new nominations, it announced it was withdrawing two previous ones.

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Amid Price resignation, OMB warns agency leaders and VA becomes more transparent

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 08:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, with Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price resigning after facing criticism for his travel habits, the Office of Management and Budget reminds agency leaders what is appropriate when on official travel.

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House committee to examine federal agencies' use of private jets and military aircraft

Thu, 28 Sep 2017 05:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is looking into how often political appointees use government-owned aircraft and private planes.

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Trump taps retired Air Force General for defense logistics post

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 08:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, President Trump nominates Robert McMahon to be the next Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics and Material Readiness.

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House Oversight leaders ask if anyone else in the White House is using private email accounts

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 05:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after it was reported that many White House advisers are using private email accounts to conduct official business, the two top lawmakers on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee want to know if there are any other executive appointees are doing so.

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CBP and ICE's unauthorized security detail for agency leaders

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 08:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a report from the Homeland Security Department's Inspector General finds executives with Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement initiated security protection for agency leaders without the legal authority to do so.

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Continuing Resolutions have become the norm

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 05:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report from the Government Accountability Office shows just how often agencies have had to deal with Congress not passing an actual budget.

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Federal employees can now donate leave to victims of Hurricane Irma as well

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 08:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management sets up its second official emergency leave transfer program of this month.

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Congress, Navy share blame for recent ship collisions in Asia-Pacific

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 06:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, naval leaders and members of the Senate Armed Services Committee attempt to hash out how the two deadly ship collisions could have happened this summer.

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Navy relieves two commanders in 7th fleet due to 'lack of confidence'

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 09:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, as the Navy continues to investigate the deadly crashes involving two of its ships this summer, two commanders in the 7th fleet where the crashes occurred have been relieved of duty.

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New House bill aims to improve federal firefighters' retirement benefits

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 05:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two representatives introduce legislation to give federal firefighters retirement benefits that match up to their state and local counterparts.

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Government to put out help wanted sign for IT positions

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 11:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new government-wide job posting seeks to fill critical technology and cyber positions in multiple agencies.

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Government to put out help wanted sign for IT positions

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 11:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new government-wide job posting seeks to fill critical technology and cyber positions in multiple agencies.

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Poor conditions of Navy's shipyards impact operations, says GAO report

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 08:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report says the Navy's shipyards are in such bad shape they can no longer meet the services operational needs.

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Poor conditions of Navy's shipyards impact operations, says GAO report

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 05:51:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report says the Navy's shipyards are in such bad shape they can no longer meet the services operational needs.

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Proposed NDAA amendments look to regulate use of 'official time'

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Senator Ron Johnson introduces two new amendments to the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act which would increase monitoring of how much "official time" federal employees are using.

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DOJ will not review case against Lois Lerner

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department decides it will not be reopening the case against IRS executive Lois Lerner for her role in targeting conservative groups.

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Former Commerce manager gets 4 years in jail for taking bribes

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former IT manager with the Commerce Department has to pay a hefty fine and do some jail time for steering contracts to an acquaintance.

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Making government more effective through data sharing

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Commission on Evidence-Based Policymaking creates a list of ways using data sharing can help the government.

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Hundreds of employees have left the EPA

Thu, 07 Sep 2017 20:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, reports indicate the buyouts the Trump administration offered to many employees are starting to take effect.

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Technical snafu involving security contractor exposes thousand of former servicemembers' personal info

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 23:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the security contractor TigerSwan says a former recruiting vendor accidentally made thousands of its resume files publicly available. They included personal information of thousands of former servicemembers.

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Congress has a packed week ahead as it returns

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Congress is set to take on some important issues this week including Hurricane Harvey relief, the debt ceiling, and passing a fiscal 2018 budget.

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Lawmakers say existing solutions lull data breach victims into a false sense of security

Mon, 04 Sep 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, lawmakers are asking the Government Accountability Office to come up with better protections for victims of cyber attacks.

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Justice Department creating task force to go after Hurricane Harvey opportunists

Fri, 01 Sep 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, using lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina, the Justice Department has formed a task force to go after those looking to take advantage of Hurricane Harvey survivors.

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House Rep wants the Secret Service to stop paying Trump businesses

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) is introducing an amendment into an agency funding bill to prohibit the Secret Service from giving any money businesses owned by the President or his family.

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Transgender personnel will still be able to serve in the military...for now

Wed, 30 Aug 2017 14:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after President Donald Trump issued a memorandum to end military recruitment of transgender personnel, Defense Secretary James Mattis has laid out how he plans to go about implementing it.

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EPA Inspector General to review Administrator Pruitt's travels

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 17:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after a request from Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), the Environmental Protection Agency's Inspector General is looking into EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt's many trips back and forth to Oklahoma.

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Air Force issues increase in flight pay for first time in 18 years

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 20:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Air Force makes a series of adjustments with the goal of putting a dent in its pilot shortage.

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Zinke sends recommendations for national monuments to White House

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 23:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after being asked to review 27 nationally designated monuments, Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke presents his ideas to the President.

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Feds can now look to their phones for ethics questions

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 02:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new mobile app provides insight for federal employees when facing dilemmas in government ethics.

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Navy leadership removes 7th fleet commander after 'loss of confidence'

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin has been relieved of command after a series of at-sea incidents including the most recent collision involving the USS John S. McCain.

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Navy chief puts operations on hold after USS John McCain crash

Tue, 22 Aug 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the second crash in two months, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson calls for an "operational pause."

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Did Trump administration circumvent ethics rules in EPA hirings?

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 13:15:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two senators are questioning how the Trump administration hired non-confirmed political appointees at the EPA and the Council on Environmental Quality.

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Conflict of interest, slow payouts among issues with DOJ's administering of 9/11 victims fund

Fri, 18 Aug 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General conducts an audit to see how well DOJ is handling the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.

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Government website developers may want to shift focus to mobile device access

Thu, 17 Aug 2017 14:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, new numbers the General Services Administration's Digital Analysis Program shows an increasing amount of users accessing government websites from their mobile devices.

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Navy Commander pleads guilty to obstructing "Fat Leonard" investigation

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 17:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Navy Commander Bobby Pitts admits to helping Glen Defense Marine Asia CEO Leonard Francis during the investigation into the defense contractor.

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CBP's $5 million in unnecessary polygraph exams

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 20:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a Homeland Security Department Inspector General report says Customs and Border Protection was conducting lie detector tests on job candidates who were already disqualified.

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No sequestration for agencies this year

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 17:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office reiterates its earlier findings that discretionary spending will not bust established budget caps this fiscal year.

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GAO: Measuring accomplishments of military bands is difficult

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 23:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new Government Accountability Office report attempted to see if the 136 military bands are completing their objectives.

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Veterans Affairs forced to take back fired D.C. medical center director

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 02:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after firing the director of the VA's D.C. Medical Center, the agency is forced to reinstate him while the case is being reviewed.

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Democratic lawmakers want to know how much agencies are giving Trump companies

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, minority members of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee send letters to the heads of all agencies, asking what products or services they have purchased from companies associated with or owned by President Donald Trump.

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Agencies get help with recruitment and retainment

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 02:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management sets up a new online course to help HR workers understand their options for improving agency recruitment and retainment.

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Senate passes bill to tackle government purchase card fraud

Tue, 08 Aug 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new piece of legislation to root out waste, fraud, and abuse with government credit cards gets through the Senate.

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Hispanic federal managers renew call for agencies to hire more Hispanic employees

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, members of the Hispanic Council of Federal Employment urge President Trump to make hiring more Hispanic employees a priority.

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OPM still not implementing some governmentwide data requirements

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 14:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new Government Accountability Office report found the Office of Personnel Management has made only some progress in strengthening its network security.

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Senate has busy day with Veterans Affairs reforms

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 17:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senate passes a group of bills which will have an effect on the Veterans Affairs Department and veterans' benefits.

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Coast Guard commandant voices support for transgender members

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 20:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, while President Trump has tweeted that the military will no longer allow transgender people to serve in the military, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul Zukunft has reaffirmed his commitment to them.

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Trump administration's border wall project on hold due to bid protests

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 23:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration extends the comment period for those who want to give their opinions of rules pertaining to topics such as acquisition.

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Trump administration's border wall project on hold due to bid protests

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 02:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the process for selecting a contractor to build a wall on the U.S. southern border is delayed because of two companies objecting to the bidding process.

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Senate Democrats last effort to get new FBI headquarters fails

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Republicans on the Senate Appropriations Committee rejected an amendment in a spending measure which would have authorized funds for a new, consolidated FBI headquarters.

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VA committees come to agreement on new funding measure for Veterans Choice program

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the first measure failed to pass the House, both chambers' respective Veterans Affairs committees have new legislation on the table.

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Three postal workers convicted in scheme to deliver cannabis in DC

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department says three postal workers conspired to use USPS equipment to distribute large amounts of pot to the D.C. area.

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New program lets you meet face to face with IRS over the internet

Tue, 25 Jul 2017 14:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Internal Revenue Service is trying out a pilot program to let taxpayers meet with IRS representatives through virtual conferences.

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Bill to create new cyber agency at DHS to be introduced this week

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 17:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Representative Michael McCaul (R-TX) is set to introduce legislation this week which would reshuffle the Homeland Security Department to create an agency focused on cybersecurity.

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Former DEA officer pleads guilty to using gun in robbery

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 20:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former officer with the Drug Enforcement Administration admits to taking part in a robbery disguised as a standard search.

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Congress increases use of earmarks in 2017

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 23:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Citizens Against Government Waste releases its 2017 Pig Book, highlighting what they see as wasteful spending by Congress.

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Idea of new space branch for the military gets cold reception from defense leadership

Wed, 19 Jul 2017 02:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, another high ranking defense official comes out against the creation of a new military branch to focus on space issues, called for in the House's defense authorization bill.

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IRS' record retention practices now below federal requirements

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 05:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a new report highlights poor record management at the Internal Revenue Service, leading to lost or accidentally destroyed federal records.

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One of EPA's top cops is retiring

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 08:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Susan Shinkman, Director of the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Civil Enforcement says she will be retiring by the end of the summer.

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OPM proposes new guidelines on admin leave

Fri, 14 Jul 2017 09:19:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management has proposed new regulations that define parameters for agencies in granting administrative leave.

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OMB to agencies: Learn to live with less

Thu, 13 Jul 2017 09:15:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Management and Budget has issued its guidelines to federal agencies for 2019 budget submissions, telling them to get comfortable with lower civilian spending and workforce levels.

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Severe cybersecurity issues found at Army medical facilities

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 09:16:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a report issued by the Defense Department inspector general has found 350 known security vulnerabilities at three Army hospitals and clinics, adding Defense Heath Agency and Army officials have failed to effectively protect electronic patient health information.

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Report offers a roadmap for White House leadership on innovation

Tue, 11 Jul 2017 07:11:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation has proposed a detailed set of recommendations for the White House to boost faith in the legitimacy of government by improving its effectiveness.

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VA's first 'accountability' posting shows hundreds fired since Trump inauguration

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 11:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Department of Veterans Affairs has posted its first list of employee removals, suspensions and demotions showing 525 VA staffers have been fired since President Trump took office in January.

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Watchdog group claims 'biased hierarchy' persists at NPS

Fri, 07 Jul 2017 07:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, senior National Park Service officials continue to receive immunity from disciplinary actions despite findings of misconduct. The findings, according to an independent watchdog group, continue the perception of a biased hierarchy within the agency.

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Audit finds deficiencies with DHS data security

Thu, 06 Jul 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an audit finds the Homeland Security Department's Office of the Chief Information Officer and Office of Financial Management is not taking all the necessary steps to make sure data it collects was not compromised.

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State Dept. survey shows lack of leadership and vision of the future among employee concerns

Wed, 05 Jul 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a survey of employees from the State Department shows deep dissatisfaction with longstanding problems and with current leadership.

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Justice Department's Compliance Officer resigns citing Trump conduct

Tue, 04 Jul 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Compliance Counsel for the Justice Department Hui Chen says she is leaving her job to participate in more political activism.

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Senate committee passes FAA funding measure without plan to privatize air traffic control

Mon, 03 Jul 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill authorizing the Federal Aviation Administration gets through the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee without plans to privatize the nation's air traffic control system like it's House counterpart.

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FBI Special Agent indicted for making false statements about Oregon standoff

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an FBI Special Agent involved with the 2016 standoff at an Oregon wildlife refuge gets indicted for making false statements about an encounter with one of the occupiers.

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House Armed Services Committee approves adding climate change as security threat

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the House Armed Services Committee is in the process of creating a defense spending bill for fiscal 2018 and has approved an amendment which identifies climate change as a national security threat.

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FedRAMP's 5th anniversary

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, analysis of how the Federal Risk Authorization and Management Program has matured over the last 5 years.

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EPA reshaping advisory boards

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Environmental Protection Agency is in the process of starting to rebuild its Science Advisory Boards.

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Bill in Congress would tighten rules around LPTA use

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two members of the House introduce legislation to apply limits to using lowest-price technically acceptable to civilian agencies.

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Former diplomatic Secret Service agent charged with spying for China

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 11:50:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former State Department special agent in the Diplomatic Security Service has appeared in federal court on charges of giving top-secret documents to a Chinese agent.

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New bill would grow Navy to 355 ships

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:47:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Navy would benefit from a proposed law that would grow its fleet to 355 ships. Estimates vary as to how quickly the 79-ship buildup could happen, or how it would be paid for.

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DoD seeks input on streamlining DFARS

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 11:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department is targeting procurement rules in response to President Trump's executive order to evaluate existing regulations and recommend their repeal, replacement or modification.

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DHS hopes third time's a charm for major cybersecurity contract award

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Homeland Security Department has once again awarded Raytheon the $1 billion DOMino cybersecurity contract.

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Pentagon Official: DoD will be audit ready by end of September

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Defense Department's Comptroller David Norquist says the department has been properly preparing for its deadline for audit readiness.

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Justice Department investigating major contractor

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Booz Allen Hamilton announces announces Justice Department has launched an investigation into some of the company's accounting and charging practices.

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EPA Inspector General clears agency of wrongdoing in Gold King Mine spill

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the IG says while the Environmental Protection Agency didn't break any rules pertaining to blowout-prone toxic mines, it didn't have any rules in place to begin with.

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GAO upholds protests of OPM's background investigation services contract

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Government Accountability Office faults the Office of Personnel Management's process for not evaluating each of the bids for the $117 million dollar contract fairly.

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Senators hope to help Veterans Affairs fill thousands of open positions

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two Senators introduce legislation to the Veterans Affairs Department address its 45,000 vacancies.

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There will be no prosecutions related to Denver VA hospital cost overruns

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department tells disappointed lawmakers there was not enough evidence to prosecute executives at the Veterans Affairs Department related to the mismanagement of a construction project at a VA hospital in the Denver area.

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Senior EOIR executive accused of abusing hiring authority

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department's Inspector General says an unnamed senior official with the Executive Office for Immigration Review was involved in a scheme to hire friends and feed them information that was not public for job opportunities.

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DHS Secretary defends 2018 budget request

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly explains to the House Homeland Security Committe why DHS needs a 6.8 percent budget increase.

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New tool to help servicemembers make major retirement decision

Wed, 07 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Pentagon unveils a calculator to help members of the military figure out if they should opt into the new blended retirement system.

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Federal contractor charged with leaking classified information to the press

Tue, 06 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Reality Leigh Winner, an employee of Pluribus International Corporation, removed classified material from a government facility and gave it to an online news outlet according to the Justice Department.

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Secret Service eases drug policy for applicants, prior marijuana use no longer disqualifies

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in dire need of more agents, the Secret Service says it's no longer turning down applicants who tried marijuana more than a certain number of times in the past.

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DOJ falls short in handling of sexual harassment claims within agency

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Justice Department Office of Inspector General reports that though the number of allegations is low, DOJ has systemic issues with how it handles sexual harassment and misconduct claims.

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OPM: Ease up on the new Senior Executive Service requests

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management wants agencies to exercise restraint and be judicious in making requests for additional Senior Executive Service positions.

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OPM: Ease up on the new Senior Executive Service requests

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Office of Personnel Management wants agencies to exercise restraint and be judicious in making requests for additional Senior Executive Service positions.

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Veterans Affairs IG investigating more cases of employees stealing drugs

Wed, 31 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, data discovered by the Associated Press reveals the Veterans Affairs Department Office of Inspector General is looking into over 100 cases of employees accused of stealing drugs from VA Health facilities.

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Union to Trump administration: Hands off student loan forgiveness program

Tue, 30 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the National Treasury Employees Union is worried the Trump administration's plan to eliminate the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program would make it harder for agencies to recruit top talent.

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Employee at Interior CIO's office admits to fraudulent card use

Mon, 29 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, an employee working under the Interior Department's Chief Information Officer admits to using her government travel card for personal use.

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Democratic leaders ask Zinke to go easy on National Monuments

Fri, 26 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the minority leaders and whips of both chambers of Congress ask Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to not eliminate any national monuments.

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Former Marine cops to stealing parts from Marine One squadron

Thu, 25 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a former Marine staff sergeant pleads guilty to stealing from the helicopter squadron responsible for transporting the president.

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FTC and Justice Department's Antitrust Division want staff reductions

Wed, 24 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, in both of the agencies 2018 budget requests, the Federal Trade Commission and the Antitrust Division within the Justice Department say they would like to save money by cutting some positions.

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Court rules FAA can't regulate recreational drones

Tue, 23 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a win for drone hobbyists as the Court of Appeals in D.C. finds the Federal Aviation Administration overstepped it's authority in forcing recreational UAS flyers to register their aircraft.

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Agencies team up to increase police protection

Mon, 22 May 2017 14:35:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, three federal agencies launch a new network to quickly relay information about individuals considered a threat to police officers.

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Senate panel passes improper federal bonuses bill

Fri, 19 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, a bill that would limit the authority agencies have to give bonuses to bad-behaving federal employees has cleared its first congressional step.

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Bipartisan bill would let review board decide if IT vulnerabilities should be made public or not

Thu, 18 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, following the massive WannaCry ransomware cyber attack, a group of senators introduce legislation to set up a board to regulate disclosures of hardware and software vulnerabilities discovered by federal agencies.

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Non-federal entities get extra year to comply with OMB grant standards

Wed, 17 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, state and local governments, non-profits, universities, and other recipients of federal money, get more time to align their procurement standards with the Office of Management and Budget's changing oversight rules.

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White House says federal networks not affected by WannaCry ransomware

Tue, 16 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the White House says the WannaCry ransomware that has reached dozens of countries, was not able to penetrate federal cyber defenses, and also defends the NSA.

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Agencies escape sequestration cuts in FY 2017

Mon, 15 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Congressional Budget Office gives agency budget directors a bit of good news.

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Senior Executive Association looks to empower present and future government leaders

Fri, 12 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the Senior Executives Association releases a new Strategic Direction which lays out how it will prepare for the federal workforce of the 21st Century.

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DoD fails to meet all requirements for reporting improper payments, IG says

Thu, 11 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In todays Federal Newscast, DoDs inspector general found the department complied with only one of the six requirements of the act by reporting improper payment rates of less than 10 percent.

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USDA employees get refresher on 1st amendment

Wed, 10 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Purdue wants to make sure his employees keep citizens' rights in mind while conducting agency business.

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After John Oliver segment, FCC faces major IT problems

Tue, 09 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, after the late night comedian ran a segment on the Federal Communication Commission's planned changes to its net neutrality policy, the agency's CIO says it faced a massive distributed denial of service attack.

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GSA failed to comply with Improper Payment Acts in FY 2016

Mon, 08 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, the General Services Administration 's Inspector General says the agency missed one of its major goals for reducing improper payments.

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Lawmakers worry HHS memo to employees could stiffle communications with Congress

Fri, 05 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Federal Newscast, two senior Republican lawmakers want reassurances that Department of Health and Human Services is not interfering with its employees communication with members of Congress.

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Official under investigation for improper travel, plans international trip before retirement

Thu, 04 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Top Federal Headlines, House Oversight Committee chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) is interested in why the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center's outgoing director is taking an international training trip weeks before retirement.

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Official under investigation for improper travel, plans international trip before retirement

Thu, 04 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

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Military academy grads looking to turn pro will have to serve first

Wed, 03 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In today's Top Federal Headlines, the Defense Department is rescinding a policy which let graduates pursuing careers in professional sports defer their military service.

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House passes enhancement to Whistleblower Protections Act

Tue, 02 May 2017 12:01:00 -0000

In todays Top Federal Headlines, the Follow the Rules Act gets through the House. The legislation tidies up a few loopholes in laws protecting whistleblowers at federal agencies.

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US Attorney in Virginia to head DOJs National Security Division

Mon, 01 May 2017 14:01:00 -0000

In today's Top Federal Headlines, the federal prosecutor who convicted Virginia's former governor on corruption charges takes charge of the Justice Department's National Security Division.

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