Federal Funding Updates

Earlier this week, federal judges in Rhode Island and Washington D.C. issued temporary restraining orders (TROs) preventing federal agencies from terminating existing research activities impacted by recent executive orders or the OMB memo. The Department of Justice has clarified that federal agencies cannot pause, freeze, block, cancel, or terminate awards based on these directives. However, these TROs are temporary, and agencies must still review grants for compliance with federal law. This means that some agencies may still pause, modify, or terminate specific activities in the future. Especially federal agencies that have issued notices requiring an immediate halt to all specific DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) activities.

Yesterday afternoon (02/07/2025) NIH announced a 15% indirect cost rate will now apply to all new and existing grants. This is another negative impact to biomedical research.

At this time, we advise faculty to continue all grant-funded research activities unless specifically notified of a suspension (cease & desist) or termination by agency personnel (e.g., a program officer). We encourage you to continue writing and submitting federal grants.

Guidance for Faculty:
●    Review your grants & budgets – Ensure timely spending of awarded funds and confirm expenditures align with approved budgets.

●    Exercise caution in making new financial commitments—funded awards could be affected by shifting federal priorities.

●    Prioritize essential spending – Avoid unnecessary delays in purchasing approved research materials, hiring personnel, or conducting project activities.

●    Communicate with program officers – If you anticipate delays in spending or project milestones, contact your program officer for guidance on modifications or extensions.

●    Monitor agency guidance – Stay informed through official funding agency announcements and websites. If you receive specific communications from federal sponsors, please forward to Dr. Jason Bush, Interim Associate Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs (jbush@csufresno.edu).

We are working closely with the Chancellor’s Office (Government Relations & General Counsel) and the campus research leadership network to monitor developments. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to our office.