The collective noun for a group of gatekeepers in any large organization, especially government. Typically range from policy-quoting front-line workers up to middle managers with no hope of promotion.
"My proposal was well received by anyone I spoke to about it, but now it's been stymied by a paralysis of bureaucrats."
12 step recovery jargon referring to someone new who talks about how great life is, now that they'resober. Usually meaning that the person is out of touch with reality.
The new guy seems pretty happy for a dude who has no job, no money and no family. He must be on a pink cloud.