Policy

House Appropriations Package Now Includes Contractor Back Pay

There is still a chance federal contractors unpaid during the 35-day shutdown could get back pay.

Modernization

Deepfakes are coming and lawmakers are looking for answers

Experts worry false video and audio created by deep learning algorithms can wreak havoc during the next election, but finding those responsible and punishing them is no easy task.

Cybersecurity

OIG: USPS Must Better Manage Its Cyber Funds

Day-to-day expenses shouldn't count as cyber investments, the IG said.

Acquisition

As GSA consolidates buying schedules, special item numbers are due for cuts

The General Services Administration's plan to unify procurement schedules includes a plan to rein in sprawl in special item numbers.

Ideas

To Fight Online Disinformation, Reinvigorate Media Policy

Disinformation, toxic speech, and polarization online are a result opaque digital information systems. The fix? We can start by updating the approach of media policy for the new environment.

Emerging Tech

House Oversight Votes to Secure Connected Devices in Government

The committee approved legislation that would enforce basic security standards for the numerous internet-connected devices used at federal agencies.

Modernization

Show Cloud Impact Early and Often to Boost Adoption

Find early wins and share them often, Veterans Affairs and Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency officials said.

Modernization

In Kansas, Using an App to Streamline DMV Registrations

The state launched the iKan app as a way to make it easier for residents to renew driver’s licenses or vehicle registrations. A state official said it also ended up generating new revenue.

Modernization

$733 billion defense bill passes committee

The House Armed Services Committee debated into the early morning, pushing the 21 hour mark before passing its version of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.

Emerging Tech

Survey: U.S. Air Travelers Approve of Biometric Identification

A large majority of respondents said they are willing to give up their biometric data—when they perceive a security benefit.

Digital Government

Quick Hits

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Digital Government

FCW Insider: June 13

Top stories, quick hits and other updates from FCW's reporters and editors.

Modernization

Congress Questions Leadership of VA Health Record Overhaul

Veterans Affairs officials said their upgraded health record platform will start rolling out in March, but lawmakers worry they might be jumping in too soon.

Cybersecurity

House focuses on cybersecurity R&D in energy spending bill

The House Appropriations Committee approved a series of cybersecurity-related research and development initiatives that are designed to tighten up protection to the electric grid and other energy systems.

Modernization

DOD and VA's decisionmaking body for health record modernization lacks a decider

Defense and Veterans Affairs officials revealed a plan, decided March 1, to set up a joint governance board to make decisions on implementation of their commercial electronic health record system at a House hearing.

Digital Government

Using Data to Predict Coastal Flood Risk

A new online tool compiles NOAA water-level data and storm forecasts to help coastal residents prepare for floods.

Modernization

How CBP saved thousands of staff hours with RPA

Customs and Border Protection's email migration project is an example of emerging tech's practical payoffs.