President Barack Obama signs S. 743, the Whistleblower Protection and Enhancement Act (WPEA), in the Oval Office, November 27, 2012. Standing behind the President, from left, are: John Berry, Director of the Office of Personnel Management; Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa; Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine; Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii; Rep. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.; Rep. Todd Platts, R-Pa.; Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif.; Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md.; and Special Counsel Carolyn Lerner.
(Official White House Photo by Pete Souza.)
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On September 19, 2012, Senator Akaka swore in witnesses for the last time as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia. The Chairman’s final hearing, entitled “Investing in an Effective Federal Workforce,” was a summation of the progress that has been made on many Federal workforce issues under his tenure, as well as a discussion of steps that must be taken to ensure an effective and efficient Federal government now and for future generations.
“It has been a great honor for me to serve as Chairman of this Subcommittee, and work on issues that – although they may not always make headlines – are crucial to improving the lives of our citizens,” said Senator Akaka. “Over the years, I have often said that I believe that the Federal government, as the nation’s largest employer, has a responsibility to lead by example, to be a model employer. It is my hope that the work of this Subcommittee has moved us toward that goal.”
Senator Akaka has served as the Subcommittee chair since 2007 and became Ranking Member in 2005. Witnesses praised Senator Akaka in their testimonies as being a friend to Federal workers who will be sorely missed.
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The Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia has legislative and oversight jurisdiction over issues including federal labor and workforce matters, government efficiency and effectiveness, and the District of Columbia.
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The Public Employees Roundtable recognized Senator Akaka’s long-standing commitment to Federal Employees during Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW). Bill Bransford, General Counsel of the Senior Executives Association and Vice-chairman of the Public Employees Roundtable, presented the Public Service Award to Senator Akaka. PSRW annually recognizes federal, state, local, and military public servants during the first full week of May.
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Senator Akaka speaks at the press conference outlining the Government Accountability Office's High Risk List of programs vulnerable to waste, fraud, and abuse.
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Senator Akaka speaks at the opening of a new Social Security hearing office after a Subcommittee hearing on Social Security claims backlogs.
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