People

Trump administration advances policy that could block DOD unions

The delegation of authority is the first step in a plan that could lead to the elimination of unions at civilian defense agencies.

People

Federal employee unions still quiet on endorsements

Public-sector unions are taking a wait-and-see approach after early endorsements in the 2016 cycle.

People

Former GSA official among Trump's pardons

David Safavian was administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy when he was arrested in 2005.

People

FLRA ruling changes union withholding rules

In a blow to federal unions, the Federal Labor Relations Authority ruled on Feb. 14 that federal workers could stop paying union dues at any time, instead of observing the current practice of letting employees elect to withhold dues once a year.

People

IRS wants $300 million for IT modernization in 2021

The agency is planning IT modernization and security initiatives while also adding more than 100 new special agents focused on cybercrime and virtual currencies.

People

GSA seeks assisted acquisitions exec

GSA is searching for an assistant commissioner to help oversee assisted acquisitions, including FedSIM.

People

Lawmakers hope to extend paid parental leave beyond Title 5

A new bill would update federal workforce law to allow more employees to take advantage of a paid parental leave benefit.

People

GAO, Congress warn on Census staffing, cyber

On the eve of the 2020 census, oversight bodies are warning on risks that could compromise the population count.

People

White House floats 1% pay raise for civilian feds in 2021 budget

Democrats in Congress and federal employee unions are pushing legislation for a 3.5% pay hike.

People

Trump looks to curtail DOD civilian employee unions

A recent White House memo authorized a new policy to let the defense secretary roll back collective bargaining among civilian workers at the Department of Defense.

People

FDA wants to upgrade ethics filing platform

The Food and Drug Administration aims to improve the way documents for ethics rules compliance are filed and tracked.

People

Future-proofing government by fostering connections

Collaboration in and among agencies and dedication to customer service will ensure government can meet the demands of the future.

People

Retirement claims for feds spike in January

Retirement claims for January 2020 is largest in eight years.

People

OPM preps guidance about Wuhan coronavirus

Despite current low risk of contraction, OPM encourages feds to use good hygiene and use workplace flexibilities where needed

People

Key agencies still lack confirmed watchdogs

Expert says lack of confirmation sends message that inspectors general are undervalued, ineffective

People

Carrots or sticks?

Steve Kelman considers the research on what makes for an effective motivator.

People

At hearing, IGs look to curb reprisals against whistleblowers

The Trump impeachment and trial put whistleblowers in the public eye, but behind the headlines, officials say, agency whistleblowers are subject to reprisal.

People

The power of bad

Steve Kelman shares insights from a new book about negativity and the importance of seeking out the positive.

People

Union presses to suspend ruling on workplace impeachment talk

An emergency motion would pause an Office of Special Counsel policy designed to tamp down federal workplace advocacy of impeachment.

People

Does strategic planning help organizations?

Steve Kelman notes growing support for strategic planning efforts -- and the steps agencies take to keep those plans relevant.