Nuclear agency moving toward security personnel reform

The top official at the National Nuclear Security Administration last week said his agency is moving toward a broad personnel reform designed to enhance the security of the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile. NNSA Administrator Linton Brooks said agency officials are developing a plan to implement the recommendations of the Security Workforce Panel, a group of experts led by retired Adm. Hank Chiles. The panel called for improved training and qualifications for NNSA security personnel, a national recruitment effort, a streamlined hiring process and a wide-ranging human capital management plan. The move to restructure NNSA security comes amid calls to federalize that protective workforce. Earlier this month, Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham said he would consider replacing security contractors who work for NNSA with federal employees. Energy officials are discussing creating an elite, military-style security unit to protect NNSA facilities. Full Story