Defense

Hearing on protections for national security whistleblowers postponed

Advocacy groups criticize witness list for the hearing, which has been delayed until January.

Defense

Efforts to boost air marshal service fall short, GAO finds

Homeland Security has yet to expand training, career opportunities for marshals, according to a new report.

Defense

National security whistleblowers boycott upcoming hearing

Subcommittee defends proposed witness list, which includes inspectors general and a former FBI agent.

Defense

Lawmakers seek more disaster relief contracts for small businesses

Bill would require DHS to create a new database of small, disadvantaged companies available for recovery work.

Defense

Tech projects listed among Justice’s top management challenges

Upgrading and integrating IT systems remains a hurdle, IG says.

Defense

Hurricanes have little influence on citizen preparedness, report finds

DHS considers placing disparate citizen preparedness efforts under single roof.

Defense

House panel backs bill to tighten border security

Critics fault legislation for failing to require merger of ICE and CBP.

Defense

Homeland Security, IG dispute impact of merging agencies

Lawmaker says he expects bill combining ICE and CBP to be introduced this week.

Management

OPM drops terrorist-screening rule for federal charity drive

Participating organizations no longer required to check employees against government watch lists.

Defense

Homeland Security, IG battle over proposed merger

Dueling arguments unveiled in IG report recommending that immigration and customs-related units be combined.

Defense

Senators to weigh suggested merger of homeland security agencies

Chair of key committee says DHS must make 'significant changes.'

Management

SBA launches program to expedite loans for small Gulf Coast firms

Move comes amid mounting criticism that agencies are failing to involve small businesses in reconstruction.

Defense

Audit finds gaps in FEMA’s database security

Lapses leave sensitive emergency preparedness information vulnerable, inspector general says.

Defense

DHS releases draft infrastructure protection plan

Public has until Dec. 5 to submit comments.

Defense

Homeland Security unveils unified border control strategy

Initiative includes increased staffing, strengthened interior enforcement and greater investment in detection technology.

Defense

Lawmakers threaten subpoenas for Katrina-related documents

New e-mails shed light on ex-FEMA director Michael Brown’s actions after the hurricane hit--including a plea from his press secretary that he roll up his sleeves for the TV cameras.

Defense

TSA aims to clarify federal security directors' role in emergencies

Updated guidance will address concerns about need for better coordination, delineation of responsibilities.

Defense

Defense official cites procedural flaws in Katrina response

Pentagon did not wait to follow the National Response Plan, official testifies.

Defense

Homeland Security implements rule on digitized passport photos

Requirement under Visa Waiver Program to be followed next year with one for biometric chips.

Defense

Homeland Security to expand biometric visitor tracking system

Critics say administration is moving too slowly on other border security initiatives.