Skinner: CBP improperly used award-fee approach

Customs and Border Protection paid $8 million in award fees to an Alaska Native firm on an improperly structured contract, said Homeland Security Inspector General Richard Skinner.

Audit finds fault with National Communications System

The National Communications System was not prepared to manage procurements for the 2005 hurricane season, according to an audit released by the Homeland Security Department inspector general.

Margaret Graves takes reins as acting DHS CIO

Margaret Graves takes over as acting chief information officer today on Richard Mangogna's last day as CIO.

DHS to pursue flexible acquisition methods

The Homeland Security Department has modified its investment review process and is strengthening procurement, according to its management undersecretary, Elaine Duke.

The best security might be natural

A biologist offers his views on what nature can teach us about homeland security.

TSA issues RFI for Web-based passenger data systems

The agency wants information on systems to collect hourly data on waiting times for passenger security checkpoints at airports.

Coming: $7.2B for broadband, Internet access

The new economic stimulus law allots $7.2 billion for expanding broadband connections to underserved areas.

Senate, House stimulus versions differ on E-Verify

The House version of the economic stimulus bill would require E-Verify employment verification for all contracts covered by the stimulus spending; the Senate bill approved yesterday does not.

CBP issues RFI for traffic monitoring technology

Agency officials would like to obtain an information system that can continuously monitor and measure incoming automobile traffic within 10 miles of U.S./Canada border entry points.

DRC gets immigration services work

Dynamics Research Corp. will help immigration authorities with collecting fingerprints and photographs under a new contract.

DHS, Boeing move closer to SBInet rollout

Lab testing of the Homeland Security Department's SBInet virtual fence revealed minor computer bugs that are expected to be fixed before construction begins in March or April, the program's director said.

Gregg’s relationship with contractor questioned

Concerns raised over missing information from Commerce secretary nominee's campaign contribution reports.

New rules for importers take effect

A last-minute Bush administration rule requiring importers to file more data on shipments went into effect Jan 25.

No slowing down for biometrics

Biometrics and identity solutions programs will remain high on the government’s to-do list this year.

DRC will provide management support to DHS

The task order worth $1.5 million will support the department's Office of Intelligence and Analysis.

FEMA wants ID management support

Federal Emergency Management Agency wants innovative pricing choices for software that would control access and identity management to deal with surges in use after major disasters.

L-3 to aid Navy with advanced technologies

L-3 Communications Corp. will furnish advanced technologies and other support services to the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic under a contract potentially work $87.4 million.

DRC to provide training assistance to DHS

Dynamics Research Corp. will provide specialized training services to the Homeland Security Department under a five-year contract.

Alion to assist DOD threat-protection agency

Alion Science and Technology will provide threat-protection technology assistance to the DOD under a $21.8 million contract.

Report: May see $1B spent on biometrics under Obama in '09

The Obama administration is likely to spend $750 million to $1 billion on biometric applications this year, primarily in defense, intelligence and homeland security, according to a new report.