OMB grant regulation paused by Congress

The US Senate has taken a significant step to prevent implementation of the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) proposed revisions to federal grant regulations. On 2 August, the Senate released the text of a Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government through mid-December. On the last page of the bill, Congress forbids the Administration from finalising or implementing OMB’s proposed revisions to grant regulations. The move follows sustained concern from research, higher education and scientific organisations about the potential impact on federal funding and research independence.

The provision was highlighted by both Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) when announcing the agreement, signalling that concern extends across party lines and reflecting the level of attention the proposal has received.

For STM members, the development represents an important milestone in an issue that has been a major focus of engagement over recent months. The scholarly publishing community has a direct stake in this debate, and STM has worked closely with members, partners, and policymakers to highlight concerns about its potential implications.

The Senate language does not rescind the proposal. Instead, it would prevent implementation for the duration of the Continuing Resolution. For that reason, while this week’s announcement is a significant development, it is not the end of the process. STM will continue working with members, congressional offices, the Administration and partner organisations in the weeks ahead as the legislation progresses, continuing to make the case for withdrawal of the proposal rather than simply pause.