OMB Proposes Major Changes to Federal Funding Landscape
The Office of Management & Budget (OMB), the largest office in the Executive Branch, has released a proposed revision to the ‘Uniform Guidance’ (2CFR200), the government’s set of rules overseeing federal grants. These rules dictate how funding is allocated as well as how grants are awarded and managed.
If solidified, this proposal would significantly restructure the federal research management requirements.
Key Changes
- ‘Uniform Guidance’ (2CFR200), currently a guideline for agencies to interpret and implement independently, would become a regulation that dictates rules directly to awardees.
- Along with the typical peer review process, discretionary grant awards will also have to be reviewed by a ‘senior political appointee’ to ensure that the subject matter aligns with the priorities of the Federal Administration. These appointees will have the authority to make the final decision on grants.
- Federal agencies will be given more discretion to terminate awards based on ‘national interest”. A new 90-day suspension authorization would allow agencies to pause awards while considering termination.
- Research and development awards will be limited to U.S. entities. No federal funds could be used for collaborations with foreign countries or entities that are considered adversarial to the U.S. Institutions.
- Publication costs and conference attendance costs would need to be approved in advance by the federal agency.
What Can You Do?
Under the Administrative Procedure Act, OMB must review public comments before implementing a proposal.
If you are interested in making a public comment, you can share your thoughts and concerns on the proposal here:
https://www.regulations.gov/docket/OMB-2026-0034/document?withinCommentPeriod=true
Anyone can comment. Comments can be made individually or with others in your department/ division. Any comments must be made by the individual only and not on behalf of the institution. More detailed comments are likely to be the most impactful.
Any information included in your comment is public. You can also post your comment anonymously.
The deadline to submit your comments is July 13th.
Here is a suggestive template to help organize your comment.
More Resources:
Attain Partners Cutting Through the Complexity: TOP FAQs on the Proposed Uniform Guidance Revisions
Register for webinar on Tuesday, June 30th:
https://attainpartners.com/event/publication-and-periodical-costs-uniform-guidance-revisions/
OMB Proposed Revisions to the Uniform Guidance: Key Takeaways for Award Recipient Organizations
Summary of Key Changes in OMB’s Proposed Federal Financial Assistance Rule
Comments on OMB Guideline by Professor Peter Brass
Association of American Universities Five Ways OMB's Proposal Could Upend U.S. Science
Last Updated: 06/29/2026 13:52