The President’s Budget Request has been released, and it proposes severe cuts to scientific funding and research. For example, the President is asking Congress to: 

• Slash the budget for biological and environmental research at the Department of Energy by more than 1/2
• Enact $23.5 billion decrease in funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), bringing NIH funding back to 2002 levels
• Cut funding for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) by $2.3 billion
• Decrease funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF) by 55%, including a 71% funding cut to the Biological Sciences Directorate, resulting in a loss of scientific engagement for 240,000 Americans
• Continue the gutting of global health programs, cutting the budget by 60%
   

We need you to reach out to your Congressional delegation to tell them to stop these cuts. The U.S. Congress holds the power of the purse. The ASM Public Policy team will be working closely with Congress as they draft their FY2026 appropriations bills – but Congress needs to hear from you, their constituent.  

Your lawmakers need to know that these cuts will have catastrophic effects on the scientific community. Congress must get to work and prioritize funding the government for Fiscal Year 2026 as quickly as possible.  

You can help by making your voice heard. Tell your members of Congress to provide robust funding for science and public health in FY26 appropriations bills.  

Please take a moment to send a letter to your Representative and Senators. The pre-written letter we have provided should be customized with your personal story and sent to your elected officials today.  

Read ASM’s statement on the President’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2026.   

Act now!    

Guidelines: Please customize our prepared letter to send to your elected official.