Defense

Energy's radiation-detection center to respond to DHS needs, chief says

Oak Ridge National Laboratory unit will work to make new technology quickly deployable by agencies such as Homeland Security’s Domestic Nuclear Detection Office.

News

Mayors seek more federal support for disaster response

Local officials ask that the military no longer be viewed as a “resource of last resort.”

Defense

Panelists say regional DHS offices would help disaster response

Participants in Heritage Foundation discussion differ on the role the private sector should play in a regional support system.

Defense

Defense review to focus on handling of irregular threats

Officials to recommend more resources for fighting terrorism and protecting against weapons of mass destruction.

Defense

Nuclear detection office starts new round of domestic tests

Studies will examine performance of portable devices in detecting radiation sources.

Defense

House Democrat seeks new terrorist information-sharing unit

New unit would convert classified intelligence into forms usable by state and local officials.

Defense

Major metro areas found ineligible for anti-terror grants

Areas as large as Phoenix and San Diego are allowed "sustainment" funding, but no longer qualify for major terrorism-preparedness grant program.

Defense

DHS urged to re-expand research at animal disease facility

Plum Island Animal Disease Center currently focuses on foot-and-mouth disease.

Defense

Judge orders U.S. to disclose rail-security documents

D.C. attorney general says order should require Bush administration to release secret rail plan for Washington.

News

Group sees some gains in bioterror response, but gaps remain

Twenty experts in field give Bush administration an overall grade of D+.

Management

Rocky Flats cleanup contract called model for future federal efforts

Officials said building financial incentives for speed and performance into contract paid off.

Defense

Senators blast TSA over rail security efforts

Agency has no clear priorities for protecting rails and has not completed a risk assessment, senators and a GAO representative say at Commerce Committee hearing.

Defense

Local emergency teams resist plain-language radio rules

To qualify for federal funds, first responders must agree to stop using codes like "10-4" in radio communications.

Defense

U.S. ports begin catastrophic terrorist attack drills

Port Security Training Exercises Program brings together government and private-sector officials.

Defense

Marine Corps prepares to take on WMD-armed adversaries

Defense Department should draw on the Marines’ expertise in attacking directly from the sea, experts say.

Defense

D.C. train ban remains on hold while other cities efforts advance

Rail operator CSX and Transportation Department trying to have ban lifted.

News

HHS, DHS officials defend cooperative efforts

Two agencies must work together under last year’s Project Bioshield law, designed to increase U.S. supply of countermeasures to biological, chemical and radiological agents.

Defense

GAO: Pentagon largely complying with threat reduction reporting requirements

Five-year plan addressed Congress' requirements and tied funding to results, auditors found.