Have a bright idea for saving Uncle Sam money? Obama wants it

The administration wants federal employees to use their firsthand experiences to point out ways the government can save money, blogger Matthew Weigelt writes.

OMB tightens reporting screws on subcontracts, executive pay

The administration unveils statutes that demand more information from contractors on both the value of their subcontracts and their most highly paid executives.

SBA, IG disagree on sole-source awards

In awarding two sole-source contracts, IG says SBA officials defeated the purpose of the Recovery Act.

Alliant tops $1 billion in 14 months of business

The General Services Administration's Alliant governmentwide acquisition contract outpaces its predecessors, ANSWER and Millennia, in overall sales, according to sales figures.

Administration alters reporting rules for stimulus money

The rule change requires first-tier subcontractors to report their jobs information to the prime contractors to include in their quarterly reports.

Administration makes it easier to award vets sole-source contracts

The amendment to the Federal Acquisition Regulation would more closely mirror the language of the Veterans Benefits Act.

Senators press OFPP chief on mandatory BPAs

Officials disagree about mandating the use of certain purchasing agreements even for the most ordinary items, such as office supplies.

Is industry facing a $20B hit?

OMB's freeze on financial management and modernization projects might cost opportunities for contractors.

Small-biz definitions put hurt on midsize contractors

Midsize companies are stuck between big and small businesses as the definition of a small business has failed to keep up with the changing dynamics of the market.

OMB puts brakes on financial systems modernization

The Obama administration announced today that it will overhaul the federal financial management system and prohibit agencies from placing task orders or contracts for modernization efforts.

FBI veteran cleared to lead Transportation Security Administration

John Pistole brings more than 20 years of counterterrorism experience to TSA, blogger Mclatthew Weigelt writes.

Republicans ask public about spending cuts

House Republicans are trying to collaborate with the public to reduce spending, Matthew Weigelt writes.

Security-cleared job seekers have new social network

The Cleared Network gives people with security clearances a chance to take advantage of social networking's perks.

House Blue Dogs propose commission to kill programs

The commission would review each federal program to determine its merits.

Orszag's departure expected to have little effect on IT, acquisition

Information technology initiatives, acquisition policies are stable issues and won't feel much from the turmoil of OMB leadership changes, experts say.

How to handle a congressional hearing

Two to-dos to prepare for a congressional hearing.

New SBA deputy administrator confirmed by Senate

Marie Collins Johns will be the second-ranking official at the Small Business Administration, with responsibilities for management, policy development and program supervision.

Contractors hit by labor rights requirement

A procurement rule has taken effect that requires contractors to notify their employees of their labor rights.

Interior to get new deputy CIO

Gross takes on a new role at the Interior Department, continuing the changes at the department, Matthew Weigelt writes.

DOD bills put focus on acquisition, insourcing

In their respective defense authorization bills, the House and Senate are attempting to end quotas and limit cost-comparison factors while strengthening acquisition processes.