Workforce

Federal Labor Law Applies to Civilian Technicians in State National Guards, Supreme Court Affirms

The state of Ohio had argued it did not fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Labor Relations Authority, despite the fact that “dual status technicians” are federal employees.

Workforce

Union and Alaska Army Posts Resolve Differences Over Official Time and Illegal Contract, But Other Fights Remain

Despite agreeing to drop the illegal contract the agency unilaterally imposed on AFGE employees in 2019, union officials say management continues to resist the Biden administration’s pro-labor policies.

Management

Talks on a Spending and Debt Deal Come to a Halt

As negotiators look to avoid delaying paychecks for feds, Republicans say they hit pause on negotiations.

Management

Coronavirus Roundup: The Future of the OSHA Standard to Protect Healthcare Workers from COVID is Unclear

There’s a lot to keep track of. Here’s a list of this week’s news updates and stories you may have missed.

Workforce

EEOC Alerts Employers to AI Discrimination Risks

The agency explains how existing civil rights protections apply to artificial intelligence applications in the workplace.

Management

It’s Time to Rethink Degree Requirements for Federal Contractors

Outdated mandates that job candidates have 4-year educational degrees create barriers to getting the best people on the job.

Workforce

There is No Firm Plan Yet for Feds' Pay in a Debt Ceiling Breach

GovExec Senior Correspondent Eric Katz joins the podcast to discuss the ongoing negotiations as a default looms.

Management

Want More Good Ideas from Your Workers? Try Giving Them a Reward – and a Choice

A recent study found that offering workers a choice of what type of reward they would like for offering good suggestions increased the volume of submissions and their creativity too.

Workforce

Pay Raises and Hiring Are Where Lawmakers Agree in DHS Spending BiIl

Other common ground on the Homeland Security Department's spending levels is harder to come by.

Oversight

A U.S. Attorney Quits After 'Most Egregious' Hatch Act and Ethical Violation Reports

Leaking non-public information to media outlets to influence an election and using her position to gain Celtics tickets were among the transgressions found by investigators.

Pay & Benefits

Your Guide to Virtual Retirement Resources

Advances in technology have made it easier to get educated on federal retirement benefits without leaving your computer.

Oversight

Biden Vows Debt Ceiling Talks Will Continue while He’s Overseas at G7 Summit

Treasury Secretary Yellen repeatedly warned Congress accounting maneuvers will be exhausted within weeks, U.S. could default on its bills as early as June 1.

Workforce

Survey: 45% of Gov Employees May Walk if Agencies Reduce Remote Work Flexibility

The survey suggests more than half of government employees prefer to work for an agency that offers hybrid and remote flexibility.

Pay & Benefits

Fed Health Care Changes and the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

Some over-the-counter and out-of-network coverage may be different now that the pandemic emergency is over.

Management

What Public Health Lessons Need to Be Learned from the COVID Crisis?

Dr. Richard Stone joins the podcast to discuss his book and running VHA during the early part of the coronavirus pandemic.

Management

Passport Bottleneck Is Holding up International Travel by Americans Eager to See the World as COVID-19 Eases

Precautions taken in response to COVID-19 explain some but not all of the recent long delays in getting a passport.

Pay & Benefits

Fight the Long-Running FEHBP Abortion Ban, Gender Equity Group Urges House Democrats

The Department of Justice Gender Equality Network said the Hyde amendment unfairly makes women’s health care decisions more costly and traumatic, even when covered by exceptions in cases of rape, incest or the health of the mother.

Oversight

Lawyer Fees Draw Scrutiny as Camp Lejeune Claims Stack Up

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act, which became law last year, created a pathway for veterans and their families to pursue damage claims against the government for toxic exposure at the military base. Now, advocates and lawmakers worry high lawyer fees could shortchange those injured.

Management

DeJoy Defends His Legacy to Congress Even as He Acknowledges USPS is Falling Short of Goals

The postmaster general leaves workforce cuts and major operational changes on the table as the Postal Service confronts unforeseen headwinds to financial stability.

Management

Old Guns Could Find a New Home With Federal Law Enforcement Officers Under a New Bil

Supporters say the bill, which the House approved on Wednesday evening, will save the federal government millions of dollars.