Artificial Intelligence

4 Senators Introduce Bill with New Tools to Compete Against China

The bill includes major tech proposals, calling for more investment and closer partnerships with allies.

Digital Government

Senate Voices Privacy Concerns Over Contact Tracing

Experts were gathered in front of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection to testify on scams. But data privacy concerns bubbled over.

Cybersecurity

How Your Local Election Clerk Is Fighting Global Disinformation

Russians don’t have to change votes. They can change minds.

Cybersecurity

White House Cites Intel Sharing Efforts in NDAA Veto Threat

The related provisions would implement major recommendations from the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. 

Modernization

Preliminary FITARA Scores Look Good, Lawmaker Says

FITARA scores are not finalized but Rep. Gerry Connolly says no agency will receive a D or an F on upcoming scorecard.

Ideas

Research on Voting by Mail Says It's Safe – from Fraud and Disease

It can inspire public confidence in the voting process, if done properly.

Digital Government

Out of View: After Public Outcry, CDC Adds Hospital Data Back to Its Website — for Now

Dr. Joseph Varon, center, visits with Dorothy Webb, left, and her daughter, Tammie, while making his rounds inside the Coronavirus Unit at United Memorial Medical Center in July

Modernization

Lawmakers Push to Make Telehealth Options Permanent

Early data shows patients quickly embraced telemedicine options agencies expanded during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Digital Government

Bill Would Push State Department to Clear Passport Backlog

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the backlog of Americans waiting for passports has ballooned to at least 1.4 million people.

Emerging Tech

NASA Wants Feedback on Liability Issues with Sending Private Astronauts to Space

The space agency is seeking additional feedback on the insurance and accountability issues that accompany bringing commercial astronauts to the International Space Station.

Artificial Intelligence

Attorney General: China May Supplant U.S. If It Wins AI Race

William Barr blasted Google, Microsoft and other American big tech companies for being short-sighted while meeting the Chinese government’s demands for operating within the country. 

Digital Government

Security Clearance Reformers Tout Progress Amid COVID-19

The pandemic pushed adjudicators to conduct more virtual interviews, though that progress might be undone when the crisis passes.

Ideas

The Electoral College Is Surprisingly Vulnerable to Popular Vote Changes

This system is built to virtually ensure narrow victories, making it very susceptible to efforts to change either voters’ minds or the records of their choices.

Modernization

Ditching Legacy Systems Will Require Adjusting Some Regulations, Experts Say

Federal investment in upgraded technology will help governments better take care of the American people, experts say, but that means rules must be updated to foster innovation

Cybersecurity

Bipartisan Concerns Arise Over Cyber Director Legislation

Proponents say the new position would help balance and deconflict offensive and defensive operations.