Digital TVs

I love the fact that I still am using a hand-me-down TV and have resisted the urge to go out and buy a new plasma TV with all the bells and whistles. I also happen to be resisting the siren call of cable, so I was quite concerned about the whole transition to digital we hear about so much in the media.

So what can I (and all the other people using the classic tvs out there) do? Well, there are a variety of government resources to check out:

• Digital Television This site from the FCC (who are bringing us this transition) provides basic information on the switch and why it is happening as well as a handy clock that tells me exactly how long I have.
• TV Converter Box Coupon For those of us without digital TVs we need a converter box and the government is providing up to two $40 coupons to help us buy them. Important note: if you aren't ready to go out and buy the box then don't request the coupon they expire 90 days after being issued. Another note for those of you with cable or some other service, these boxes currently don't work with the provider.
• FCC Consumer Facts If you found the first site to be too flash and overwhelming, check this one out. It is a straight question and answer page on some of your concerns.

Finally, for those of you wondering about the media's reaction to all of this why not check out the Washington Post's "As TV Goes Digital, Some Viewers May Be in the Dark."

GAO Releases this week

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as the No Child Left Behind Act and defense contracting. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.

Reports

• Defense Contracting: Army Case Study Delineates Concerns with Use of Contractors as Contract Specialists. GAO-08-360, March 26.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-360
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08360high.pdf
• Federal User Fees: Substantive Reviews Needed to Align Port-Related Fees with the Programs They Support. GAO-08-321, February 22.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-321
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08321high.pdf
• Health Insurance: Most College Students Are Covered through Employer-Sponsored Plans, and Some Colleges and States Are Taking Steps to Increase Coverage. GAO-08-389, March 28.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-389
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08389high.pdf
• Native Hawaiian Education Act: Greater Oversight Would Increase Accountability and Enable Targeting of Funds to Areas with Greatest Need. GAO-08-422, March 25.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-422
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08422high.pdf
• No Child Left Behind Act: Education Actions Could Improve the Targeting of School Improvement Funds to Schools Most in Need of Assistance. GAO-08-380, February 29.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-380
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08380high.pdf
• VA Health Care: Additional Efforts to Better Assess Joint Ventures Needed. GAO-08-399, March 28.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-399
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08399high.pdf

Correspondence

• Comments on the Office of Personnel Management's February 20, 2008 Report to Congress Regarding the Retirement Systems Modernization. GAO-08-576R, March 28.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-576R
  
• Defense Space Activities: National Security Space Strategy Needed to Guide Future DOD Space Efforts. GAO-08-431R, March 27.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-431R
• DOD Personnel Clearances: Questions for the Record Related to the Quality and Timeliness of Clearances. GAO-08-580R, March 25.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-580R

New Peacekeeping resources

The United Nations in consultation with the African Union has created a new Peacekeeping portal. This portal's objective is "to promote collaboration and consultation among organizations and individuals working in conflict prevention and peacebuilding" (from a UN Pulse blog posting).

This new portal lets you search projects by geography, country and organization. The portal contains information on the project including a description, objectives, and contact information.

Want more UN information? Check out the library's guide.

What the CRS released this week

The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency of Congress and writes reports at Congress's request. These short reports (usually 10-40 pages long) cover recent topics of concern. This week brings us CRS reports on the China, NATO, bankruptcy, and much more. While these reports are in the public domain there is no central database available to the public. To get a copy of a CRS report you can request it from your Senator or Representative. This list is compiled from CRS reports discovered by Secrecy News and OpenCRS:

• An Emergency Communications Safety Net: Integrating 911 and Other Services
• The Primary Residence Exception: Legislative Proposals in the 110th Congress to Amend Section 1322(b)(2) of the Bankruptcy Code
• China-U.S. Trade Issues
• China's Economic Conditions
• Enlargement Issues at NATO's Bucharest Summit
• China-U.S. Relations: Current Issues and Implications for U.S. Policy
• Emergency Communications Legislation, 2002-2006: Implications for the 110th Congress
• Satellite Surveillance: Domestic Issues
• The Next Generation Bomber: Background, Oversight Issues, and Options for Congress
• U.S. Nuclear Cooperation With India: Issues for Congress
• Nuclear Weapons in U.S. National Security Policy: Past, Present, and Prospects
• U.S.-China Military Contacts: Issues for Congress
• Direct Overt U.S. Aid, Export Assistance and Military Reimbursements to Pakistan, FY2002-FY2009
• Cybercrime: An Overview of the Federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Statute and Related Federal Criminal Laws
  

Interested in historical CRS reports? If you are here at the Boulder campus, check out the LexisNexis Congressional database, which has reports back to 1916.

Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.

Iraq US causualites reaches 4000

This morning, following a mortar attack on the Green Zone in Iraq the number of casualties in Iraq reached 4000. The Department of Defense has yet to confirm the latest figures, but you can view yesterday's numbers on the casualty report (updated daily).

Want to read more about Operation Iraqi Freedom? Check out the Department of Defense page on the operation.

Want to read more about today's sad numbers? Check out the Washington Post's "U.S. Deaths in Iraq War Reach 4,000."

Want more information on the military and the war? Check out the library guides to the Iraq operation and the military.

GAO Releases this week

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as defense acquisitions, aviation and the environment, and intellectual property. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.

Reports

• Aviation and the Environment: FAA's and NASA's Research and Development Plans for Noise Reduction Are Aligned but the Prospects of Achieving Noise Reduction Goals Are Uncertain. GAO-08-384, February 15.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-384
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08384high.pdf
• Defense Acquisitions: Progress Made in Fielding Missile Defense, but Program Is Short of Meeting Goals. GAO-08-448, March 14.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-448
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08448high.pdf
• Defense Acquisitions: Termination Costs Are Generally Not a Compelling Reason to Continue Programs or Contracts That Otherwise Warrant Ending. GAO-08-379, March 14.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-379
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08379high.pdf
• Intellectual Property: Federal Enforcement Has Generally Increased, but Assessing Performance Could Strengthen Law Enforcement Efforts. GAO-08-157, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-157
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08157high.pdf
• Tax Policy: Tax-Exempt Status of Certain Bonds Merits Reconsideration and Apparent Noncompliance with Issuance Cost Limitations Should Be Addressed. GAO-08-364, February 15.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-364
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08364high.pdf
• U.S. Coins: The Federal Reserve Banks Are Fulfilling Coin Demand, but Optimal Inventory Ranges Are Undefined. GAO-08-401, March 21.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-401
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08401high.pdf
• Vehicle Donations: Selected Charities Reported Mixed Experiences after Changes in Vehicle Donation Rules. GAO-08-367, February 15.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-367
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08367high.pdf

Testimony

• District of Columbia Public Schools: While Early Reform Efforts Tackle Critical Management Issues, a District-Wide Strategic Plan Would Help Guide Long-Term Efforts, by Cornelia M. Ashby, director, education, workforce, and income security, before the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-08-549T, March 14.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-549T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08549thigh.pdf

Correspondence

• Global War on Terrorism: Reported Obligations for the Department of Defense. GAO-08-557R, March 17.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-557R
• The Nation's Long-Term Fiscal Outlook: January 2008 Update. GAO-08-591R, March 21.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-591R

Happy Fiftieth European Parliament!

Okay, the EU as an institution celebrated its fiftieth birthday last year, but the parliament, as most government bodies took a little longer to form, so today is their fiftieth birthday! When it was started in 1958 there were 142 members, from six countries and they spoke four languages. Now there are 785 members, from 27 countries, speaking 23 languages. Learn more about the history of the parliament in this slide show.

Want to read and hear what they did in celebration? Check out this page.

Want more resources on the EU? Check out the libraries guide.

Coffee Cans and other things

I suppose we could do another economics post or some other important government report. But really, wouldn't you rather read about the history of the Hills Brothers coffee can? Thanks to our friends at Free Government Information (FGI) we now know about another title in the best titles ever contest for government documents.

Hills Bros. Coffee Can Chronology relates the history of the designs on the covers of Hills Bros coffee cans. Why would there be such a report you ask? Well, apparently since the design changed fairly frequently this coffee can is useful for archaeologists trying to determine the age of a site.

Want more unusually titled or unusual titles from government publications? FGI is keeping a running page with these titles and links to their WorldCat records on their site. Hope you all have a wonderful afternoon.

St. Patrick's Day

It is St. Patrick's Day and along with wearing my green sweater I thought I would link you up with a collection of St. Patrick's resources:

• Facts for Features This page links you up with a variety of Census resources on the holiday and the Irish in America. Fun fact, there are 9 places in the US named Dublin, the biggest is Dublin, CA.
  
• White House: President Bush and Prime Minister Ahern met today and issued a couple press releases. First, the quick statements following a private meeting. This was followed by more in-depth remarks at a St. Patrick's day reception.
• Four Leaf Clovers Unlucky? This is actually a USGS release on the nonindigenous water clovers that have four leaves.
• Ireland This is a library guide to Ireland's resources.

Hope you have a great St. Patrick's day!

Federal Reserve's Emergency Weekend Meeting

Hoping to prevent a global financial crisis, the Federal Reserve announced two initiatives designed to "bolster market liquidity and promote orderly market functioning." First, the Federal Reserve Board voted unanimously to create a short-term lending facility to extend credit to "primary dealers" (large investment banks). Second, the Board voted unanimously to loser the primary credit rate from 3 1/2 percent to 3 1/4 percent. Read the press release from the Federal Reserve.

The rare Sunday night action, occurred after the collapse of The Bear Sterns Companies Inc., which is being bought by JPMorgan Chase & Co. for $2 a share. The Federal Reserve Board also approved the financing arrangement for the buyout. Read the press release from JPMorgan Chase.

Read "Fed Takes Broad Action to Avert Financial Crisis" from the Washington Post, "Sunday surprise: Fed steps into credit crisis" from CNNMoney.com, and "Fed Cuts Lending Rate to Financial Institutions to 3.25%" from FOXBusiness.

You might also want to check out CNNMoney.com's special report, Fed Focus, for all news related to the Federal Reserve.

Craving more information? Check out the library's guides on Banking and Business and Economics.

GAO Releases this week

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as defense acquisitions, the IRS, and natural resources management. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.

Reports

• Defense Acquisitions: 2009 Is a Critical Juncture for the Army's Future Combat System. GAO-08-408, March 7.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-408
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08408high.pdf
• Defense Acquisitions: Significant Challenges Ahead in Developing and Demonstrating Future Combat System's Network and Software. GAO-08-409, March 7.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-409
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08409high.pdf
• Defense Contracting: Additional Personal Conflict of Interest Safeguards Needed for Certain DOD Contractor Employees. GAO-08-169, March 7.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-169
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08169high.pdf
• Defense Management: Overarching Organizational Framework Needed to Guide and Oversee Energy Reduction Efforts for Military Operations. GAO-08-426, March 13.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-426
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08426high.pdf
• Environmental Protection: EPA Needs to Ensure That Best Practices and Procedures Are Followed When Making Further Changes to Its Library Network. GAO-08-304, February 29.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-304
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08304high.pdf
• Internal Revenue Service: Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Request and Interim Performance Results of IRS's 2008 Tax Filing Season. GAO-08-567, March 13.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-567
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08567high.pdf
• Joint Strike Fighter: Recent Decisions by DOD Add to Program Risks. GAO-08-388, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-388
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08388high.pdf
• Natural Resource Management: Opportunities Exist to Enhance Federal Participation in Collaborative Efforts to Reduce Conflicts and Improve Natural Resource Conditions. GAO-08-262, February 12.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-262
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08262high.pdf
• Telecommunications: FCC Has Made Some Progress in the Management of Its Enforcement Program but Faces Limitations, and Additional Actions Are Needed. GAO-08-125, February 15.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-125
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08125high.pdf
• Traffic Safety: Grants Generally Address Key Safety Issues, Despite State Eligibility and Management Difficulties. GAO-08-398, March 14.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-398
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08398high.pdf

Testimony

• Capitol Visitor Center: Update on Status of Project's Schedule and Cost as of March 12, 2008, by Terrell G. Dorn, director, physical infrastructure issues, before the Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, House Committee on Appropriations. GAO-08-545T, March 12.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-545T
• Defense Management: DOD Needs to Reexamine Its Extensive Reliance on Contractors and Continue to Improve Management and Oversight, by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Subcommittee on Readiness, House Committee on Armed Services GAO-08-572T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-572T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08572thigh.pdf
• Defense Management: Overarching Organizational Framework Could Improve DOD's Management of Energy Reduction Efforts for Military Operations, by William M. Solis, director, defense capabilities and management, before the Subcommittee on Readiness, House Committee on Armed Services. GAO-08-523T, March 13.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-523T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08523thigh.pdf
• Environmental Protection: EPA Needs to Follow Best Practices and Procedures When Reorganizing Its Library Network, by John B. Stephenson, director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, House Committee on Science and Technology. GAO-08-579T, March 13.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-579T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08579thigh.pdf
• "The Government Accountability Office (GAO) Act of 2007" (H.R. 3268), and Other GAO Reforms, by Shirley A. Jones, Esq., Employee Advisory Council (EAC) attorneys representative, before the Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-08-587T, March 13.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-587T
• Hardrock Mining: Information on Abandoned Mines and Value and Coverage of Financial Assurances on BLM Land, by Robin M. Nazzaro, director, natural resources and environment, before the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. GAO-08-574T, March 12.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-574T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08574thigh.pdf
• Homeland Security: DHS Improved its Risk-Based Grant Programs' Allocation and Management Methods, But Measuring Programs' Impact on National Capabilities Remains a Challenge, by William O. Jenkins, Jr., director, homeland security and justice issues, before the Subcommittee on Homeland Security, House Committee on Appropriations. GAO-08-488T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-488T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08488thigh.pdf
• Information Security: Progress Reported, but Weaknesses at Federal Agencies Persist, by Gregory C. Wilshusen, director, information security issues, before the Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information, Federal Services, and International Security, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-08-571T, March 12.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-571T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08571thigh.pdf
• Joint Strike Fighter: Impact of Recent Decisions on Program Risks, by Michael J. Sullivan, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittees on Air and Land Forces, and Seapower and Expeditionary Forces, House Committee on Armed Services. GAO-08-569T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-569T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08569thigh.pdf
• Mineral Revenues: Data Management Problems and Reliance on Self-Reported Data for Compliance Efforts Put MMS Royalty Collections at Risk, by Franklin W. Rusco, acting director, natural resources and environment, and Jeanette M. Franzel, director, financial management and assurance, before the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, House Committee on Natural Resources. GAO-08-560T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-560T
• Presidential Signing Statements: Agency Implementation of Selected Provisions of Law, by Gary L. Kepplinger, general counsel, before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, House Committee on Armed Services. GAO-08-553T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-553T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08553thigh.pdf
• Privacy: Government Use of Data from Information Resellers Could Include Better Protections, by Linda D. Koontz, director, information management issues, before the Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census, and National Archives, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-08-543T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-543T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08543thigh.pdf
• Stabilizing and Rebuilding Iraq: Actions Needed to Address Inadequate Accountability over U.S. Efforts and Investments, by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, before the Senate Committee on Appropriations. GAO-08-568T, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-568T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08568thigh.pdf
• U.S. Government Accountability Office: Human Capital Initiatives and Additional Legislative Authorities, by Gene L. Dodaro, acting comptroller general, before the Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. GAO-08-573T, March 13.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-573T

Correspondence

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Changes in Obligations and Activities before and after Fiscal Year 2005 Budget Reorganization. GAO-08-328R, February 25.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-328R
• September 11: Fiscal Year 2008 Cost Estimation Process for World Trade Center Health Programs. GAO-08-537R, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-537R
  
• Status of Selected Aspects of the Coast Guard's Deepwater Program. GAO-08-270R, March 11.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-270R

Presentations by the Comptroller General

• "Making Tough Budget Choices to Create a Better Future," by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, National Defense University, in Washington, D.C. GAO-08-604CG, March 12, 2008
  http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d08604cg.pdf
• "Saving Our Future Requires Tough Choices Today," by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, on the Fiscal Wake-Up Tour at the Haas School of Business, the University of California, Berkeley. GAO-08-583CG, March 5, 2008
  http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d08583cg.pdf
• "Saving Our Future Requires Tough Choices Today," by David M. Walker, comptroller general of the United States, on the Fiscal Wake-Up Tour at the Maddy Institute, California State University, Fresno. GAO-08-584CG, March 6, 2008
  http://www.gao.gov/cghome/d08584cg.pdf

Report: FBI Misused National Security Letters

A report from the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) focusing on FBI investigations in 2006 found many privacy violations by the FBI in their use of National Security Letters (NSLs). NSLs are FBI letters requesting private customer information from businesses and banks without court approval and preventing those who receive NSLs from discussing them. Some of the problems found included improper requests, NSLs issued without proper authorization, and the unauthorized collection of personal data.

The full report, A Review of the FBI’s Use of National Security Letters: Assessment of Corrective Actions and Examination of NSL Usage in 2006, is available from the OIG. The findings are similar to the findings from a 2007 report from OIG report that found the FBI had used NSLs to improperly obtain personal data from 2003-2005.

The FBI was granted expanded powers (including NSLs) after September 11th, by the USA Patriot Act. Find more information on the 2001 USA Patriot Act (H.R.3162) and the USA Patriot Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 (H.R.3199) from Thomas. Or if you are here on campus, search LexisNexis Congressional for additional reports and hearing.

Read Report: FBI Misused Information-Gathering Powers from the Washington Post, FBI Improperly Obtained Data on Americans, Justice Department Report Says from FOX News, and Report: FBI abuse of investigative tool continued in 2006 from CNN.

Want more information? Check out the library's guide on the War Against Terrorism.

US State Department Human Rights Reports

The US State Department has released the 2007 Human Rights reports. These reports examine the human rights situation across the the world and are released annually. For those interested in watching a briefing, the State Department has put the briefing up online.

Want some media discussion? Check out the Washington Post's "State Department Rights Report Calls Record of Sudan 'Horrific.'"

Want more human rights information? Check out the library guide.

Congressional Research Service reports

The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency of Congress and writes reports at Congress's request. These short reports (usually 10-40 pages long) cover recent topics of concern. This week brings us CRS reports on the energy, border searches, IRAs, and much more. While these reports are in the public domain there is no central database available to the public. To get a copy of a CRS report you can request it from your Senator or Representative. This list is compiled from CRS reports discovered by Secrecy News and OpenCRS:

• Air Force Air Refueling: The KC-X Aircraft Acquisition Program
• Economic Factors Affecting Small Business Lending and Loan Guarantees
• Lighting Efficiency Standards in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007: Are Incandescent Light Bulbs "Banned"?
• Overview of Labor Enforcement Issues in Free Trade Agreements
• International Illegal Trade in Wildlife: Threats and U.S. Policy
• Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs): A Primer
• New Markets Tax Credit: An Introduction
• Impact of Rising Energy Costs on Older Americans
• Border Searches of Laptops and Other Electronic Storage Devices
• Mortgage and Rental Assistance as Disaster Relief: Legislation in the 110th Congress
• Role of Home State Senators in the Selection of Lower Federal Court Judges

Interested in historical CRS reports? If you are here at the Boulder campus, check out the LexisNexis Congressional database, which has reports back to 1916.

Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.

GAO Releases this week

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is often called the investigative arm of Congress. This week they investigated a variety of issues, such as bank fees, Homeland Security, defense, Somalia, and Medicaid. If you would like to know more about the GAO, check out the library's guide.

Reports

• Bank Fees: Federal Banking Regulators Could Better Ensure That Consumers Have Required Disclosure Documents Prior to Opening Checking or Savings Accounts. GAO-08-281, January 31.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-281
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08281high.pdf
  
• Business Systems Modernization: Internal Revenue Service's Fiscal Year 2008 Expenditure Plan. GAO-08-420, March 7.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-420
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08420high.pdf
• Defense Infrastructure: Army and Marine Corps Grow the Force Construction Projects Generally Support the Initiative. GAO-08-375, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-375
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08375high.pdf
• Defense Management: More Transparency Needed over the Financial and Human Capital Operations of the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization. GAO-08-342, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-342
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08342high.pdf
• Financial Audit: American Battle Monuments Commission's Financial Statements for Fiscal Years 2007 and 2006. GAO-08-326, February 29.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-326
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08326high.pdf
  
• Financial Audit: Senate Restaurants Revolving Fund for Fiscal Years 2007 and 2006. GAO-08-463, March 7.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-463
• Information Security: Securities and Exchange Commission Needs to Continue to Improve Its Program. GAO-08-280, February 29.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-280
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08280high.pdf
  
• Maritime Security: Coast Guard Inspections Identify and Correct Facility Deficiencies, but More Analysis Needed of Program's Staffing, Practices, and Data. GAO-08-12, February 14.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-12
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d0812high.pdf
• Medicaid Demonstration Waivers: Recent HHS Approvals Continue to Raise Cost and Oversight Concerns. GAO-08-87, January 31.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-87
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d0887high.pdf
  
• Military Base Realignments and Closures: Higher Costs and Lower Savings Projected for Implementing Two Key Supply-Related BRAC Recommendations. GAO-08-315, March 5.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-315
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08315high.pdf
  
• Military Training: Compliance with Environmental Laws Affects Some Training Activities, but DOD Has Not Made a Sound Business Case for Additional Environmental Exemptions. GAO-08-407, March 7.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-407
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08407high.pdf
• Reprocessed Single-Use Medical Devices: FDA Oversight Has Increased, and Available Information Does Not Indicate That Use Presents an Elevated Health Risk. GAO-08-147, January 31.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-147
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08147high.pdf
  
• Somalia: Several Challenges Limit U.S. and International Stabilization, Humanitarian, and Development Efforts. GAO-08-351, February 19.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-351
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08351high.pdf
• Supplemental Appropriations: Opportunities Exist to Increase Transparency and Provide Additional Controls. GAO-08-314, January 31.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-314
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08314high.pdf
  
• Surface Transportation: Restructured Federal Approach Needed for More Focused, Performance-Based, and Sustainable Programs. GAO-08-400, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-400
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08400high.pdf
  
• Utility Oversight: Recent Changes in Law Call for Improved Vigilance by FERC. GAO-08-289, February 25.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-289
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08289high.pdf

Related/Special Products

• Utility Oversight: Survey of State Public Utility Commissions on Utility Commission Authorities and Reporting Responsibilities For Overseeing Utilities Since the Passage of EPAct 2005, an E-supplement to GAO-08-289. GAO-08-290SP, February 25. [Internet only] http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-290SP
  

Testimony

• Advanced Energy Technologies: Budget Trends and Challenges for DOE's Energy R&D Program, by Mark E. Gaffigan, acting director, natural resources and environment, before the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment, House Committee on Science and Technology. GAO-08-556T, March 5.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-556T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08556thigh.pdf
• Coast Guard: Deepwater Program Management Initiatives and Key Homeland Security Missions, by Stephen L. Caldwell, director, homeland security and justice, and John P. Hutton, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittee on Homeland Security, House Committee on Appropriations. GAO-08-531T, March 5.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-531T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08531thigh.pdf
  
• Coast Guard: Observations on the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget, Recent Performance, and Related Challenges, by Stephen L. Caldwell, director, homeland security and justice issues, before the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard, Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. GAO-08-494T, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-494T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08494thigh.pdf
• The Democratic Republic of the Congo: Major Challenges Impede Efforts to Achieve U.S. Policy Objectives; Systematic Assessment of Progress Is Needed, by David Gootnick, director, international affairs and trade, before the Congressional Human Rights Caucus. GAO-08-562T, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-562T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08562thigh.pdf
  
• Homeland Security: DHS Has Taken Actions to Strengthen Border Security Programs and Operations, but Challenges Remain, by Richard M. Stana, director, homeland security and justice issues, before the Subcommittee on Homeland Security, House Committee on Appropriations. GAO-08-542T, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-542T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08542thigh.pdf
• Hospital Quality Data: Issues and Challenges Related to How Hospitals Submit Data and How CMS Ensures Data Reliability, statement for the record by Linda T. Kohn, acting director, health care, before the Senate Committee on Finance. GAO-08-555T, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-555T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08555thigh.pdf
  
• Housing Government-Sponsored Enterprises: A Single Regulator Will Better Ensure Safety and Soundness and Mission Achievement, by William B. Shear, director, financial markets and community investment, before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. GAO-08-563T, March 6.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-563T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08563thigh.pdf
• Information Technology: Significant Problems of Critical Automation Program Contribute to Risks Facing 2010 Census, by David A. Powner, director, information technology management issues, and Mathew J. Scire, director, strategic issues, before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. GAO-08-550T, March 5.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-550T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08550thigh.pdf
• Space Acquisitions: Major Space Programs Still at Risk for Cost and Schedule Increases, by Cristina T. Chaplain, director, acquisition and sourcing management, before the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, Senate Committee on Armed Services. GAO-08-552T, March 4.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-552T
  Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d08552thigh.pdf
  

Correspondence

• Defense Travel System: Validity of Travel Payments Statistical Sampling in Question. GAO-08-444R, March 3.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-444R
• Management Letter: Recommendations for Improvements to MCC's Internal Controls and Policies on Premium Class Air Travel. GAO-08-468R, February 29.
  http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-468R
  

Jobs in the United States went down in February

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the employment situation information for February this month. I know this is my second the government does numbers post of the week, but a loss of 63,000 jobs in the US economy or as the BLS states "Nonfarm payroll employment edged down in February" (from the press release) deserved citation I thought. The Federal Reserve also announced this morning two initiatives in regards to shoring up the financial system.

Want to see what the press is saying about this job loss? Check out the Washington Post's "Job Market Takes a Hit From Weak Economy: Federal Reserve Announces New Steps to Ease Credit Crisis" or Fox News "Employers Slash Jobs by Most in 5 Years, Feeding Recession Fears."

Want more information? Check out the library's labor and employment guide.

World Bank and mashup maps

The World Bank has released a nice new mashup of their projects and Google Maps. One could always access country pages from World Bank, but let's be honest isn't it a lot more funs playing with maps. This graphical representation also allows you to get a better idea of where the World Bank has projects out there. There is also basic data on those developed country doesn't work in.

Want more on maps? Check out the library's guide.

Congressional Budget Process

Okay, it definitely doesn't rank up there in terms of excitement with some government actions, but this week the House is marking up the budget. This is the budget for the coming fiscal year that starts in October (the federal fiscal year is October to September just to be different) and this is just the first step in what is sure to be a long and contentious process. But I thought I would highlight a few resources that may make the time pass more quickly (or at least give you some interesting reading along the way):

• House Budget Committee This is where all the action is happening today. It has a nice (or depressing on your point of view) ticker with how big a share of the national debt we each have. You can also view the hearings online (high or low bandwidth). Down the sidebar you get a collection of links to the various documents.
  
• GOP Leader Blog Okay, this one is a little on the partisan side, but it is good to know exactly what those various sticking points are and as the minority party in the House the Republicans are working hard to get their message out.
• White House Budget This is the budget plan that President Bush sent to Congress that they are now working on. It contains a nice state-by-state summary of what the budget means to each state.
• Congressional Budget Office (CBO) The CBO writes reports on the budgetary impact of numerous actions by Congress and is a great place for non-partisan analysis of the various proposals.
• Debt and Budget Information You didn't think I would end this post without a link to the library's guide did you? This page links to a variety of additional sources of information. Have fun!
  

From the Congressional Research Service

report you can request it from your Senator or Representative. This list is compiled from The Congressional Research Service (CRS) is a research agency of Congress and writes reports at Congress's request. These short reports (usually 10-40 pages long) cover recent topics of concern. This week brings us CRS reports on the NASA, Iraq, child welfare, and much more. While these reports are in the public domain there is no central database available to the public. To get a copy of a CRSCRS reports discovered by Secrecy News and OpenCRS:

• The U.S. Postal Service's Use of Contractors to Deliver Mail
• Operation Iraqi Freedom: Strategies, Approaches, Results, and Issues for Congress
• Aviation Security: Background and Policy Options for Screening and Securing Air Cargo
• Child Welfare Issues in the 110th Congress
• Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker Modernization: Background, Issues, and Options for Congress
• Russia's 2008 Presidential Succession
• National Aeronautics and Space Administration: Overview, FY2009 Budget, and Issues for Congress
• USDA Meat Inspection and the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act
• The Credit Card Market: Recent Trends, Funding Cost Issues, and Repricing Practices
• Consumer Product Safety Commission: Current Issues
• Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty: Issues and Arguments
• The D.C. Circuit Rejects EPA's Mercury Rules: New Jersey v. EPA
• Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Weapons and Missiles: Status and Trends
• Water Infrastructure Needs and Investment: Review and Analysis of Key Issues
• Russian Energy Policy toward Neighboring Countries
• North American Oil Sands: History of Development, Prospects for the Future
• Fusion Centers: Issues and Options for Congress
• The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act: A Brief Overview of Selected Issues
• The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act: Comparison of House-Passed H.R. 3773, S. 2248 as Reported By the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and S. 2248 as Reported Out of the Senate Judiciary Committee
• Defense Contracting in Iraq: Issues and Options for Congress
• FY2009 Defense Budget: Issues for Congress
  

Interested in historical CRS reports? If you are here at the Boulder campus, check out the LexisNexis Congressional database, which has reports back to 1916.

Not on campus, but still want access to additional reports? The library has a guide linking to various additional sources of CRS reports.

Russia Votes in New President

With about 65% of the vote, Dmitry Medvedev became Russia's new president. Medvedev was hand chosen by former Russian President Vladimir Putin to be his successor. After 8 years, Putin was not eligible to run for president again.

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the only Western observers in Russia for the election, concluded that the election results were the will of the people. However, the process leading to the election was cited for the same flaws found in the the December 2007 parliamentary election. Read "Russian Presidential election: for an election to be good it takes a good process, not just a good election day" from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

Want more information on Medvedev? Check out his profile from the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation and "Dmitry Medvedev: Russia's new Kennedy?" from the World Security Network.

Check out "Election Monitor Calls Russian Vote Unfair" from the Washington Post, "Western, local observers criticize Russian election" from Reuters, and "Muted welcome for Russia leader" from BBC News.

Want more information on Russia? Check out the library's guide.