Acquisition

Last CIO-SP4 protest resolved

Re-evaluations are now underway ahead of another attempt at awards for this potential $50 billion government-wide IT vehicle.

Cybersecurity

Ransomware group's evolving tactics pose growing threat

A joint advisory from the FBI and the nation’s cyber defense agency warns that a persistent threat actor is advancing its tactics and targeting critical infrastructure sectors.

People

Never mind the degrees – here's skills-based hiring

The Office of Personnel Management is working on a skills-based classification and qualifications policy, set to be released by the end of this fiscal year.

Artificial Intelligence

GOP presidential hopeful Hurd campaigns on AI policy

Former congressman Will Hurd is offering a novel AI policy as part of his larger campaign platform.

People

Bill allowing past cannabis users to become feds advances in House

The bipartisan legislation was amended this week to remove provisions allowing current marijuana users to be eligible for federal employment or a security clearance.

Ideas

Spending time in space can harm the human body

COMMENTARY | But scientists are working to mitigate these risks before sending people to Mars

People

Former officials sound off on the challenges of managing through a shutdown

“The big thing that happens..is lots of lawyers weighing in on what activities are actually exempt," one former official said.

Modernization

House panel advances MGT update

A bipartisan bill to reauthorize and update the legislation that established the Technology Modernization Fund sailed through committee on Wednesday.

Cybersecurity

Federal cyber operations face challenges as government shutdown looms

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will retain about one-sixth of its workforce in the event of a partial government shutdown, according to its current plan.

Artificial Intelligence

White House official tees up AI executive order

Deputy National Security Advisor Anne Neuberger spoke on the executive branch’s ambitions in spurring guardrails for AI systems, emphasizing on a collaborative mentality and helping bridge regulations in Congress.

Artificial Intelligence

Companies turn to risk mitigation tools to monitor AI absent federal law, study finds

While Congress debates AI regulations, Gartner has found a majority of businesses are looking at using new IT tools to self-regulate the risks of AI usage.

Defense

Cyber on the battlefield is about more than IT

The Army successfully tested zero trust in a classified environment during a multinational military exercise.

Digital Government

What does post-pandemic telework look like during a shutdown?

As agencies begin planning for funding to stop on Sept. 30, federal telework guidance will be tested in a post-COVID environment. 

Artificial Intelligence

Commerce head envisions innovation pathways under the CHIPS Act

Over a year after the landmark CHIPS and Science Act was passed, Secretary Gina Raimondo said the U.S. needs to “embrace innovation” in semiconductor production.

Ideas

Solving government employee experience crisis

COMMENTARY | When equipped with leading-edge technology and supported by private sector partners who understand and value the government's mission, federal employees can better serve the citizens that depend on government service.

Acquisition

Brace for potential government shutdown, federal contractor group warns

A leading industry group is warning federal contractors to prepare for uncertain times while noting that the latest guidance for some agency contingency plans leaves “a lot to be desired.”

Ideas

What is USB-C? A computer engineer explains the one device connector to rule them all

COMMENTARY | With pressure from the European Union, Apple has thrown in the towel on its Lightning connector in favor of the standard USB-C.

Modernization

FDA's draft plan calls for AI, other emerging tech in modernization efforts

The Food and Drug Administration is accepting comments on its Data and Technology Strategic Plan, which outlines the agency’s goals to leverage AI in its analytical processes.

Modernization

TMF reboot looks to stabilize funding, increase transparency

The reauthorization of the Modernizing Government Technology Act is due for a committee markup on Wednesday.

Cybersecurity

Nation-state actors are exploiting AI for discord and attacks, DHS warns

The agency’s 2024 Homeland Threat Assessment notes that the “proliferation of accessible AI” could enable larger-scale cyberattacks against the U.S.