Ideas

It’s Time to Shore up the Universal Service Fund So It Can Live up to Its Name

Congress needs to create a solution that reflects how Americans actually use telecommunications services rather than how we once did.

Digital Government

'Perfect Storm' Threatens 'Major Institutional Defeat' for the Census, Top Watchdog Says

The decennial count is ahead of schedule overall, but a condensed schedule and hiring shortfalls are creating significant risks.

Artificial Intelligence

How the Pentagon’s JAIC Says It’s Prioritizing Ethics In Its AI-Driven Pursuits

Joint Artificial Intelligence Center officials stay connected with stakeholders through an executive steering group and other working groups. 

Ideas

What a Smoky Bar Can Teach Us about the '6-Foot Rule' During the COVID-19 Pandemic

It’s important to understand the rule's limitations.

Cybersecurity

Cyber Commission Suggests Reforms to Allow Flexible Pay, Hiring to Boost Workforce

Prospective federal employees might be turned off by cybersecurity jobs being classified as IT.

Digital Government

Pentagon Acquisition Chief Hints Section 889 Supply Chain Waiver May Be Extended

The Defense Department’s Undersecretary for Acquisition and Sustainment Ellen Lord spoke briefly about Section 889 Part B implementation Wednesday.

Ideas

Diving into Government’s Trusted Internet Connections Standard 3.0 

The policy lays out the framework for security, but allows agencies to fill in the details based on their unique missions.

Cybersecurity

COVID Could Spur Reduced Reliance on Classified Sources of Cyber Intelligence

CISA officials highlighted cloud configuration and VPN vulnerabilities in assessing threats associated with the pandemic.

Digital Government

Veterans’ Experiences With VA’s Health Care System Improve

The Veterans Affairs Department offered better experiences than community-based care except when it comes to access to care, according to a recent study.

Digital Government

Pentagon, Defense Contractors Are Out Of Step On Tech Innovation, GAO Finds

The Pentagon wanted to fund ambitious research into future tech breakthroughs but contractors spend most of their money on safer bets, GAO has found.

Digital Government

Pentagon Seeks Input from Workforce on Improving Diversity

The request is part of Defense Secretary Mark Esper’s overhaul of personnel practices.

Cybersecurity

FCC Estimates Replacing Chinese Telecom Equipment Will Cost at Least $1.6 Billion

A key lawmaker echoed calls from the agency’s chairman for Congress to appropriate the money.

Digital Government

IRS Offering Up to $7M to Develop ‘Data Mashing’ Tools In Support of Frictionless Acquisition

Using its experimental multiphase Pilot IRS contract vehicle, the agency issued a quickturn solicitation to improve data collection for a governmentwide effort to improve procurement.

Digital Government

The Government Is Failing to Notify Employees of COVID Cases in Their Buildings or Ensure Cleaning, IG Says

The approach is "threatening the health and safety of federal workers, contractors, building occupants and the public," lawmaker said.

Ideas

Subj: This Email Could Wreak Havoc on the 2020 Election

Beware of COVID-related phishing threats that target local voting.

Digital Government

Customs Deploying Biometric Tech at Ports Without Fully Addressing Privacy Requirements, GAO Finds

A new audit shows Customs and Border Protection isn’t providing enough transparency to travelers regarding facial recognition technology at ports.