Digital Government

Industry groups call for TMF reforms following funding boost

The groups' call for changes to how the government operates the modernization fund echoes concerns that multiple former CIOs voiced to FCW this month in interviews.

Cybersecurity

Agency hacks could accelerate push to zero trust security model

Chris DeRusha, the federal chief information security officer, said agencies largely have the tools they need to adopt zero trust security protocols but making a change will "require a shift in mindset."

Cybersecurity

Senators press for federal agency accountability over SolarWinds

Three top cybersecurity officials struggled to answer questions from lawmakers about who is to blame for the government's failure to stop the breach of nine federal agencies.

People

A blueprint to rebuild OPM

A congressionally mandated study from the National Academy for Public Administration asks lawmakers and the executive branch to help create the conditions for the Office of Personnel Management to fulfill its purpose as a strategic human capital advisor to federal agencies.

Cybersecurity

White House tees up cyber labeling policy

A 2020 law could provide some legal cover for executive orders regulating software and IoT cybersecurity, but new legislation could be required.

People

Biden signs Rescue bill, boosting TMF and adding pandemic leave for feds

The $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act was signed into law on Thursday. In addition to a massive influx of funding to support Americans harmed by the economic fallout of the pandemic, there is funding available for IT modernization and provision to help the federal workforce cope with COVID-19.

Cybersecurity

House passes Rescue package with TMF funding

The $1.9 trillion bill is aimed at Americans suffering financial hardships from the pandemic, but in the federal IT community, the bill will be remembered for the dramatic expansion of the Technology Modernization Fund.

People

Martorana to take over as federal CIO

The OPM tech chief is moving to the White House to lead civilian federal IT policy.

Digital Government

TMF set to receive $1B infusion in COVID relief bill

Former federal IT leaders told FCW that the boost for the Technology Modernization Fund is welcome, but the big money may necessitate process changes.

People

No new OMB pick yet, White House says

In her daily briefing, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that Shalanda Young could serve as budget director on an acting basis if confirmed as deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget.

People

OMB orders agencies to stop enforcing Trump's diversity training purge

A recent OMB memo tells agencies to remove contracting clauses related to Trump's diversity training executive order.

People

With Tanden out, top House Dems push Young for budget director

The House Speaker her and top lieutenants are pressing for the nomination of Shalanda Young to lead the Office of Management and Budget.

People

Tanden out as OMB director nominee

After weeks of controversy, the Biden administration's pick to lead the Office of Management and Budget withdrew her name from consideration.

People

OMB deputy nominee appears to have an easy confirmation ahead

While Neera Tanden's nomination to lead the Office of Management and Budget is in peril, it looks like Shalanda Young will have an smooth path to confirmation as the agency's number two official.

People

Biden team pledges help for 'damaged' federal workforce

Pam Coleman, the director for performance management at the Office of Management and Budget, said that, "each week we seem to uncover more damage" done to the federal workforce under the Trump administration.

People

Tanden's bid to lead OMB in doubt as Senate committees postpone votes

Democratic defections could hand President Biden his first rejection of a cabinet pick.

People

Manchin's opposition could sink OMB nominee

President Biden's pick of Neera Tanden's to head the Office of Management and Budget is in peril after a powerful centrist Democrat has announced his plan to vote no on the nomination.

Cybersecurity

Industry presses for tech funding in COVID relief amid Senate opposition

Several industry groups sent a letter to lawmakers last week urging them to include $10 billion for cybersecurity in the next coronavirus relief bill, however congressional backers of a tech push in the relief bill say that Senate opposition makes a big push unlikely to pass.

Modernization

Tech and tweets: Tanden talks policy and social media on Capitol Hill

President Biden's nominee for OMB director came under fire during her hearing for mean tweets aimed at Republican lawmakers. "I regret the language," she said.

Cybersecurity

Biden taps campaign veteran for federal CISO job

Chris DeRusha, who led information security on the Biden campaign, is the federal government's new chief information security officer.