On February 7th, the National Institute of Health (NIH) announced that it is immediately capping facilities and administration costs (F&A, also known as indirect costs) to 15% starting on February 10th, 2025. This action will devastate science and scientific research in the U.S. Facilities and administration costs support buildings, equipment, maintenance, and other operations that are vital to research institutions, including universities, which are among the largest employers in every state and a main economic driver.

However, since Fiscal Year 2018, there has been language in federal funding laws passed by Congress and signed by the President that inhibits changes to F&A costs.  This language (sec. 224 on page 219) is set to expire in March when new appropriation bills will be considered. Please take this opportunity to urge your members of Congress to keep this language within any appropriation bills that they consider, as well as urge them to express their concerns to NIH’s leadership.

Email your members of Congress to let them know the impact of the cap on F&A costs by NIH will have on your work and scientific research in their district and state. 

Read ASM’s statement on NIH’s recent action.