FCW Insider: August 4
The latest news and analysis from FCW's reporters and editors.
No failures, but some declines in 10th round of agency FITARA grades
Although all two dozen agencies got passing grades on the latest Federal IT Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA) scorecard, some agencies had cybersecurity and reporting challenges.
CISA chief wants younger, more experienced hackers in federal government
Professional experience and credentials don't have the same importance in cybersecurity, where teenagers can hack governments and multi-billion-dollar corporations.
Hoyer pitches $2B compromise for TMF
The House Majority leader is looking to sell lawmakers in both parties on a major uptick in funding for the Technology Modernization Fund that focuses on IRS modernization.
Points of Light: A nice story for a tough time
At a time when more social responsibility is needed, Steve Kelman notes, a 30-year-old presidential initiative is still delivering.
CISA updates internet connection policies
Many of the changes to the core Trusted Internet Connection policies were in response to public feedback seeking new tech and additional architectural and security concepts.
Quick Hits
*** The Office of Personnel Management plans to issue draft changes to General Schedule qualification policies by Aug. 21, in keeping with a June 2020 executive order. The order is aimed at eliminating "unnecessary obstacles" to federal employment by focusing on skill assessments over credentials like college degrees. In a July 31 memo to agency heads, Michael Rigas, acting head of OPM, told agencies to name points of contact for discussion of the new policy and get ready to participate in "listening sessions" with human resources leaders inside and outside of government. Implementation of the new policy is scheduled for Dec. 24, 2020.
*** The General Services Administration is a little more than halfway through its three-phased approach to consolidate its many Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contracts into a single solicitation and contract for products, services and solutions. It said on Aug. 3 that it had completed its second phase of the consolidation on the last day of July with almost 100% of contractors signing off on contract updates that streamline terms and conditions for the new MAS solicitation. A third phase, it said in the statement, has begun which will consolidate current schedule-holders' multiple contracts.