Executive Order Changes Federal Grant Process
NEW YORK — President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order that shifts the handling of federal grants, potentially impacting billions of dollars. This move aims to give political appointees more authority over financial awards from agencies like FEMA, the National Science Foundation, and the National Institutes of Health.
The new order mandates that these federal agencies appoint officials to review grant applications to ensure they align with the priorities and interests of the country. Furthermore, it allows agencies to terminate existing grants at any time, even if they are already in progress. New funding opportunities cannot be announced until these protocols are established.
The Trump administration believes these changes will enhance oversight and simplify how agencies distribute grants. However, many scientists express concern that placing funding decisions in the hands of politically-influenced individuals could stifle vital research and development efforts. Joseph Bak-Coleman, a group decision-making researcher at the University of Washington, emphasized the risks of politicizing a previously neutral funding process.
Critics from the Association of American Medical Colleges warn that the new procedures could delay essential grant approvals, hindering advancements in medical research that are crucial for patients nationwide. They point out that the Trump administration has already cut numerous research grants on various topics, including critical areas like transgender health and vaccine hesitancy.
This order could also impact emergency relief funding and health initiatives supported by the federal government. Legal challenges to the executive order are anticipated, as experts debate its implications for scientific progress and public welfare.
