Policy & Government Affairs

GAO Report: ICBM Modernization Faces Critical Risks and Opportunities

A GAO report highlights critical risks and opportunities in the Air Force's Sentinel ICBM modernization program. The report notes delays in the missile's first flight, software development challenges, and the need for improved risk management, while also identifying opportunities for cost reduction and schedule mitigation.

GAO Report on NIST IP Guidance and Drug Pricing

A GAO report analyzes draft guidance from NIST on exercising march-in rights under the Bayh-Dole Act, specifically considering product price as a factor. The guidance, still in draft as of December 2025, received significant public support for potentially lowering drug prices, though concerns exist about its impact on innovation.

GAO Report on Alaska Tribes' Jurisdiction and Funding Clarity

The GAO released a report highlighting confusion among Alaska Tribes regarding concurrent criminal jurisdiction and eligibility for federal public safety funding. The report recommends the Bureau of Indian Affairs clarify its positions on jurisdiction and establish criteria for new funding agreements to improve transparency.

GAO Identifies 5 Open Recommendations for NSF CIO

The GAO identified five open recommendations for the National Science Foundation (NSF) Chief Information Officer (CIO) related to IT acquisitions and management. These recommendations stem from previously issued work and aim to improve IT operations, secure systems, and ensure compliance.

Executive Order on Elemental Phosphorus and Glyphosate Supply

President Biden issued an Executive Order to ensure an adequate domestic supply of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides, citing their critical importance to national defense and agricultural productivity. The order aims to address limited domestic production and reliance on imports.

President Signs H.J.Res. 142 and S. 3705 into Law

The President signed H.J.Res. 142 and S. 3705 into law on February 18, 2026. H.J.Res. 142 nullifies a D.C. tax law, while S. 3705 establishes a congressional time capsule for the U.S. Semiquincentennial.

Presidential Message on Ash Wednesday

The White House issued a presidential message observing Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten season. The message highlights the significance of the day for Christians in the United States and globally, emphasizing themes of prayer, repentance, and faith.

Illinois Executive Order Accelerates New Nuclear Power Generation

Illinois Governor issued Executive Order 2026-01 to accelerate the development of new safe nuclear power generation in the state. This order aims to support clean energy goals by lifting restrictions on new nuclear plants and facilitating their development to meet projected capacity shortfalls.

DOJ Audit of Justice Management Division's Information Security Program FY2025

The Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General has released an audit report on the Justice Management Division's Information Security Program for Fiscal Year 2025. The report, dated February 18, 2026, identifies 3 recommendations for improvement.

DOJ Audit of Court Services Information Security Management Program FY2025

The Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General has released an audit report on the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency's Information Security Management Program for Fiscal Year 2025. The report, number 26-023, includes 5 recommendations.