JOINOSTP to review potential “repeal” of Nelson Memo
Tucked into the “Joint Explanatory Statement” accompanying the Appropriations “Minibus” passed in January is a non-binding provision requesting that the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) report on the status of a “process of repealing the August 25, 2022, Memorandum to Executive Departments and Agencies entitled, ‘Ensuring Free, Immediate, and Equitable Access to Federally Funded Research,’” commonly known as the Nelson memo.
STM has learned that the current Administration has expressed concerns about the Nelson memo and is reviewing potential options.
It is worth recalling that the Commerce, Justice, and Science bills passed by both the House and the Senate this summer also included provisions raising concerns about the implementation costs of the Nelson memo, as well as its potential impact on copyright and researcher choice.
STM continues to engage with policymakers on these issues and will keep members informed as developments unfold.