Modernization

NOAA to get supercomputers, satellites

The agency's list of projects includes funding for weather satellites and climate-data supercomputers.

Cybersecurity

DHS grants total millions for IT

The Homeland Security Department announces $970 million in state and local grants that include funding for IT items such as port identification cards, truck-tracking systems and the Real ID Act.

Modernization

IG: Interior's networks weren't secure in 2008

The Interior Department apparently sent data to networks controlled by hostile countries in January 2008, according to a just-released inspector general's report.

Modernization

FCC preparing national broadband plan

The FCC will take a year to produce a national broadband strategy, but that should not be a problem for stimulus broadband grants, according to one expert.

Modernization

FERC needs to step up oversight of grid security, experts say

Experts recommend more oversight and possibly more statutory authority for federal officials to better guard against cyber spies reportedly gaining access to the nation's power grids.

Cybersecurity

FEMA publishes reorganization details

The agency describes details of its recent reorganizations and says the changes do not effect its substance.

Modernization

FEMA seeks contractor for asset-tracking system

The agency has published an RFI looking for a contractor to develop and manage its asset-tracking system.

Modernization

OMB updates guidance for stimulus money

Federal agencies must track 41 data elements on spending under the economic stimulus law, new guidance says.

People

States wrestle with stimulus funding

States are trying to figure out how to manage the huge influx of stimulus funds.

Cybersecurity

Coast Guard softens TWIC rules at ports

The service allows interim measures until May 13.

Modernization

TSA launches Secure Flight for passengers

After five years, TSA's Secure Flight prescreening system for airline passengers is operational.

Modernization

New rules to be released for stimulus reporting

Federal agencies must report stimulus spending in more detail and more frequently under rules being released tomorrow by the Obama administration.

Modernization

Requirements published for stimulus reporting

Organizations getting grants and loans under the stimulus law must use standard data elements, OMB says.

Digital Government

Watchdogs want Obama to rescind lobbying rules

A coalition of groups says the White House's policy for lobbyists seeking funding under the stimulus law is too strict and won't achieve its intended purpose.

Modernization

New rules for stimulus contracting

The federal acquisition councils published proposed rules for the reporting and legal requirements for contracts awarded under the economic stimulus law.

Modernization

Napolitano to review satellite imagery program

The DHS secretary agrees to review a controversial program that uses spy satellites for domestic security.

People

H1-B applications could fall this year

Some observers said they believe the recession this year could reduce the number of applications for H-1B visas.

Cybersecurity

Bill would change Coast Guard acquisition

The Coast Guard would change some acquisition processes under new legislation.

Digital Government

Chertoff joins Covington law firm

Former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff has joined a D.C. law firm in its white collar defense and investigations group.

Cybersecurity

Demand may fall for visas

Applications are due April 1 for the popular H-1B visas for foreign skilled workers who often work in information technology, but demand may be reduced this year because of the economy.