The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has proposed major changes to the federal grant-making process that would fundamentally alter how research funding is awarded and managed.

The proposal would make the Uniform Guidance—a framework governing federal grants to research institutions, nonprofits, and other recipients—a legally binding regulation. It would apply to all federal agencies, including the NIH and CDC, and could significantly reduce the role of scientific merit in funding decisions.

Key proposed provisions include:

• Greater agency discretion in award design and termination;
• Expanded role of political appointees in award selection;
• Prohibitions on using federal funds for publication costs or conference attendance; 
• Restrictions on “international elements” of federally funded grants; and
• Funding restrictions for research into topics associated with diversity, equity, and inclusion.

NASPGHAN encourages its members to contact Congress and highlight the potential impact of these changes on research funding, laboratory stability, allowable grant expenses, and public health initiatives. 

Congress has the authority to block these changes, but lawmakers need to hear from constituents about the potential consequences for scientific research, innovation, and public health.