The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton

Jory Heckman, a seasoned reporter for Federal News Network specializing in federal personnel issues, breaks down the latest on rescinded shutdown-era layoffs. He discusses how some agencies, including the SBA, initially told laid-off employees to return, only to reverse their decision. Employees argue that the language in the continuing resolution could nullify these layoffs, potentially leading to lawsuits. Heckman also highlights varying agency responses, including the IRS and Education's rescinding actions, and the implications of previous court rulings. The debate on whether to fight for reinstatement continues.

In this discussion, technology reporter Sam Adebayo explores Albania's groundbreaking move to appoint Diella, an AI system, as a cabinet-level minister for public procurement. He delves into how this initiative aims to enhance transparency but raises critical questions about accountability and potential biases in algorithmic governance. Adebayo highlights the mixed public reception and ethical concerns, wondering if AI could ever genuinely replace human political roles or if this is merely an experiment with uncertain outcomes.

In this discussion, Jory Heckman dives into the complexities of agency reductions and RIF notices amidst the shutdown. Sam Adebayo raises eyebrows with Albania's cabinet-level AI minister, revealing its controversial role in procurement and the ethical concerns surrounding AI in governance. Robert Iafolla highlights the rapid terminations of federal advisory committees, warning of diminished expert input and transparency. Lauren Duggan analyzes the impending NDAA negotiations and the potential impact on military oversight and appropriations.

Robert Iafolla, principal legal reporter for Bloomberg Law, dives into the rapid dismantling of federal advisory panels during the Trump administration. He highlights how this trend weakens scientific input, transferring decision-making power to political appointees. Iafolla reveals that about 160 committees have been terminated, often against agency objections, and discusses the implications for public policy and transparency. The conversation also touches on the potential for continued cuts and the challenges ahead for maintaining expert guidance in government.

Lauren Duggan, Deputy News Director at Bloomberg Government, shares insights on the impending National Defense Authorization Act vote and the unresolved nine appropriations bills that Congress must tackle. She discusses the upcoming health care premium vote and the implications for the Education Department’s funding. Phil McNamara, former Assistant Secretary at the Department of Transportation, emphasizes essential leadership practices like listening and empathy. He also reflects on the complexities of HR decisions in a post-pandemic workforce, advocating for long-term career relationships.

Dr. Jeff Waxman, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and Environment, dives into the Army's innovative plans to use small nuclear microreactors for critical infrastructure. He highlights how these reactors provide continuous power for harsh environments. Discussion includes cost-effectiveness challenges, the Army's efforts to shape the commercial nuclear supply chain, and the ambitious prototype testing at nine bases. Waxman also aims to attract talent to nuclear technology, hoping to ignite interest similar to the SpaceX era.

Jason Miller, Executive Editor at Federal News Network and expert on federal HR and IT modernization, discusses the Office of Personnel Management's effort to revamp the USA Hire platform. He explains how this modernization aims to enhance candidate assessment tools for hiring managers. Key topics include the introduction of unproctored tests, video interviews, and AI use, as well as industry reactions and concerns. Miller also highlights the role of USA Hire in centralizing innovations in skills-based hiring and improving the overall applicant experience.

Ben Harris, Executive Director of the National Armaments Consortium, and Joe Buzzett, Executive Committee Chair with extensive industry experience, dive into the future of armaments innovation. They discuss the consortium's efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and the urgency surrounding ammunition production amid global conflicts like Ukraine. The guests highlight the importance of rapid prototyping and recent policy changes to accelerate project timelines. With five new industry veterans onboard, NAC is set to tackle challenges and focus on emerging technologies for 2026 and beyond.

Jason Miller, executive editor at Federal News Network, dives into OPM's plans to modernize USA Hire, discussing vendor feedback and the potential impact on merit-based hiring. Joanna Makowska from the Animal Welfare Institute reveals a concerning drop in USDA fines post-Supreme Court decision, highlighting enforcement challenges in laboratories. Ryan Triplett of the Coalition for Fair Software Licensing examines the complexities of GSA OneGov’s enterprise agreements and the need for improved software asset visibility to ensure savings.

Ashley Ridgway, a policy advisor and staff attorney at the Animal Welfare Institute, dives into the dramatic drop in Animal Welfare Act fines following the Supreme Court's SEC v. Jarkesy decision. She reveals that fines plummeted from 63 to just 5 in 14 months, raising concerns about enforcement effectiveness. Ridgway and her colleague Joanna Makowska discuss the implications for animal protection, including inspection challenges and legislative efforts to strengthen the Act. They also explore the ongoing use of animals in labs and the limitations of non-animal methods.