Data Literacy Could Be an Essential Skill for the Federal Workforce
A new report released last week by the Data Foundation looks at 10 innovations in data literacy that federal agencies can use to effectively navigate the ever-changing data landscape.
DOD Issues Guidance for Civilian Personnel Reentry as Omicron Subvariant Spreads
Last week, Department of Defense (DOD) Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks issued guidance on the reentry of civilian employees but emphasized that business as usual is not expected.
OPM Renews Effort to Diversify SES, Launches Toolkit to Encourage Women Candidates
There may be more opportunities for women to join the Senior Executive Service (SES) under a new program to increase diversity within all federal offices.
Partnership for Public Service Asks if Federal Employees Trust Their Employer
A recent survey of approximately 500 federal employees suggests that civil servants' trust in government is closely linked to leadership performance, productivity, and retention.
White House Directs Agencies to Analyze Digital Currency, Avenues to Mitigate Risk
President Biden signed an executive order (EO) Wednesday mandating federal agencies evaluate the risks and benefits of cryptocurrencies and establishing a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
Former Federal Officials Urge Congress to Check OPM’s Authority, Bolster CHCOs HR Oversight Capacity
In marking the 20th anniversary of the Chief Human Capital Officers (CHCO) Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-296), a panel of former federal officials testified before a Senate subcommittee on federal human resources (HR) reform.
Federal Employee Appeals Can Resume as MSPB Obtains First Quorum in 5 Years
With two of the three seats on the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) confirmed, federal employees who are looking for an appeal may not have long to wait for a resolution.
POTUS Uses State of the Union to Call Federal Employees Back to the Office
At President Biden’s inaugural State of the Union address, he outlined priorities for the federal workforce, including returning feds to in-person work.
State Department Personnel Stationed in Ukraine Return to U.S., Core Team Remains in Poland
According to State department officials, the evacuated personnel are set to assist in addressing the Russian invasion of Ukraine remotely on a 400-person task force.
VA Reconsiders Workforce Benefits to Address Health Care Staffing Challenges
In a meeting with stakeholders and local staff, Secretary Denis McDonough affirmed burnout and low salaries are causing poor employee retention at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Tech Modernization Initiative at OPM Raises Concerns Amid Budgeting, Scheduling Issues
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) noted in a recent report that the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Federal Financial System’s modernization initiative is delayed through October 2023.
Congress Passes Third Stopgap Measure with FY22 Appropriations on the Horizon
The Senate approved the House of Representative’s measure to fund the federal government through March 11, preventing a shutdown on February 18, 2022.
USDA Lifts Ban on Avocado Exports from Mexico, Following Threat to Inspector
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has lifted its week-long ban on avocado exports from Mexico as authorities and growers have provided additional safety measures for inspectors.
MSPB Identifies Retirement as a Retention Tool for the Federal Workforce
The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) has recognized research suggesting retirement benefits are a significant retention tool and contribute to federal employees' staying power.
Federal Prosecutors Seek Equitable Pay and Working Conditions to DOJ Counterparts
Pay disparities and inconsistent workplace flexibility benefits for Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) are being called into question.
Congress Signals Bipartisan Agreement on Full Year Appropriations
House Appropriations Chair Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) announced negotiators have the fiscal year 2022 appropriations framework.
GAO Report Highlights Need for Comprehensive OPM Guidance to Address Staffing Shortages
Using the personnel mobility program, established under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970 (PL 91-648), agencies can address critical skills gaps through temporary assignments.