Despite Congress authorizing the increase, the Pentagon is treating it as optional amid an ongoing compensation study. A new Space Force structure approved in the 2024 defense policy law may create more flexibility for troops. An Army civilian allegedly stole $100 million in military funds in order to fund a lavish lifestyle. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the annual defense authorization bill into law later this month. The compromise bill authorizes limited assistance for Ukraine, implements AUKUS and institutionalizes a nuclear weapon. Nearly one of every four civil servant has prior or existing military experience. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said time wasted waiting for a budget before starting new programs "is time we’re ceding to China." Dec. 11 is the deadline for enrolling in the new Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account and the federal dental and vision program. Defense and veterans hearings on Capitol Hill for the week of Dec. 11, 2023. Section 702 allows the government to collect and review communications like emails and text messages of foreigners abroad. Critics say it's ripe for abuse. Load More