In late May, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposed a rule for federal grants and other forms of federal assistance that would dramatically increase political control over scientific research funding across the U.S. government. 

The most significant change would require senior political appointees — not career scientists or peer-review panels — to personally review and approve discretionary grants, using criteria tied to presidential priorities and restrictions on topics such as DEI, gender-related research, immigration, and other subjects the administration deems inconsistent with its policies. Peer review would remain advisory rather than determinative, allowing political officials to override scientific recommendations. 

The proposal would also introduce an undefined “Gold Standard Science” requirement, permit agencies to terminate active grants if they no longer align with agency priorities, and give OMB greater authority over grantmaking across all federal agencies. In addition, it would impose new restrictions on attending conferences, joining professional societies, subscribing to journals, publishing research, and conducting public outreach unless they receive specific agency approval.

What can Congress do? Before breaking for August recess, the Senate passed its version of a continuing resolution to keep the federal government open past the September 30th fiscal deadline and buy appropriators more time to negotiate final FY2027 appropriations bills. The House will take up this short-term stopgap funding measure when it returns from recess in September. Importantly, the Senate-passed continuing resolution contains a provision temporarily blocking implementation of the OMB rule until December 11, 2026. OMB originally called for proposed reforms to go into effect on October 1st, so this language represents solid progress and reflects the power and significance of advocacy. Sustained advocacy remains essential, however, so the provision survives in the final package after the House reconvenes in September. 

How can you help? Lend your voice to the cause by completing this grassroots alert and add a custom message urging Congress to ensure that any final enacted fiscal year (FY) 2027 continuing resolution (CR) or appropriations bills include language to prevent OMB from finalizing its proposed rule.