Digital Government
House pivots on data privacy bill, removing algorithmic discrimination coverage
The intended final draft of the American Privacy Rights Act includes new language on biometric data and data on minors, but notably removes civil rights protections sought by privacy advocates.
Artificial Intelligence
DHS report details AI’s potential to amplify biological, chemical threats
As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to intersect with sensitive research efforts, the Department of Homeland Security recommended increased communication and guidance to mitigate dangerous outcomes.
Cybersecurity
CISA infrastructure tool targeted in January breach, agency says
Sensitive information on the chemical security assessment platform was accessed, though it may not be up to date.
Modernization
Lawmakers press VA to report on delays in burn pit registry revamp
An October 2022 report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine said VA should “initiate a new phase” of its Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry to make it “a user-friendly, efficient and effective resource.”
People
DHS wants to go big with its hiring fair this week
The department says it's cutting red tape in government hiring by giving tentative job offers on the spot and starting vetting processes in person.
Exclusive
Cybersecurity
A House committee is scrutinizing LiDAR and IoT cyber risks from China
China’s supply chain dominance in light sensing modules and internet of things components — which include autonomous vehicles, drones and batteries — could be teeing up a slew of cyber risks, experts say.
Acquisition
Complaints mount about NITAAC's slow payment plan for CIO-SP4 protests
ANALYSIS | Many of the companies who won protests over the CIO-SP4 contract still have not been reimbursed for their costs and they are not happy about it.
Defense
Pentagon background-check systems at risk of hacking, GAO says
The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency didn’t fully implement DOD’s cybersecurity process, a new report finds.
Artificial Intelligence
Bill would require Commerce to launch AI public awareness campaign
The education campaign acts on a proposal included in the Bipartisan Senate AI Working Group’s framework that was released last month.
Cybersecurity
Closeup on an attack: Why rural hospitals need extra cybersecurity help
In addition to weaker cybersecurity protections, another concern is the oversized impact that the loss, even temporarily, of a rural hospital has on the people who live in the area.
Cybersecurity
US sanctions 12 Kaspersky leaders following product ban
The sanctions notably do not target company CEO Eugene Kaspersky.
Acquisition
Federal buyers have a new 'co-pilot' to get good deals for government
The new Procurement Co-Pilot brings data together from across the government — something that’s historically been difficult to do.
Cybersecurity
DHS highlights AI as a threat and asset to critical infrastructure in new priority guidance
The agency’s 2024-2025 Strategic Guidance and National Priorities for Critical Infrastructure highlights continued need to monitor AI’s interplay with cybersecurity.
Acquisition
Lockheed Martin tapped to develop NOAA’s new series of weather satellites
Lockheed Martin won a contract to build three satellites for NOAA’s Geostationary Extended Observations program, with the option to develop an additional four spacecraft, under a $2.27 billion award announced on Tuesday.
Cybersecurity
US blacklists sale of Russia-based Kaspersky products over ties to Kremlin
The Commerce Department says the company’s links to Russia’s government pose a national security risk, opening up systems using its software to cyber exploitation.
Modernization
Lawmakers look to amend CHIPS Act to cover manufacturing gear
A bipartisan bill would add new language to the landmark CHIPS and Science Act to eliminate materials made by “foreign entities of concern” from semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S.
Exclusive
People
Exit interview: OMB’s CX guru Amira Boland
Amira Boland was the first to take on the role of customer experience lead at the White House, and she sees great potential even beyond her departure.
Ideas
How AI will help defeat AI-powered identity fraud
COMMENTARY | Government agencies tasked with combating public benefits scams have been slow to adopt AI as a fraud prevention method.
Modernization
TMF announces new round of awards amid funding uncertainty
The $1 billion Technology Modernization Fund boost from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act is running out, and it remains to be seen whether Congress will keep the program afloat.
Cybersecurity