Congress Must Act Now to End the Government Shutdown
Congress must work together to open the government and fund federal research by passing full-year appropriations legislation that provides robust funding for federal science research and public health programs. A shutdown risks undermining public health and scientific advancement, and inconsistent or postponed funding also deprives the American people of the necessary services that federal agencies provide.When the government shuts down, research agencies cannot award new grants, and many projects are paused until Congress can reach a funding agreement. Federal agencies must curtail their efforts to support important science and public health initiatives that many state and local entities rely on for funding and other resources.
The sweeping reductions in force (RIFs) across federal agencies earlier in 2025 are already disrupting lifesaving research and having a devastating impact on the U.S. public health system. In an unprecedented move, the Office of Management and Budget has instructed federal agencies to consider additional reductions in force during this government shutdown. This would exacerbate the instability, inconsistency and inefficiency that Americans are already facing.
Legislators must get to work immediately and prioritize funding the government for Fiscal Year 2026 as quickly as possible. While short-term funding through a continuing resolution (CR) may appear to be a better option than a shutdown, it prolongs extended uncertainty and undermines the U.S. research enterprise.
It’s past time for Congress to enact funding that provides robust investments in federal science agencies and public health. This is imperative for research, grants and federal programs to continue to work and benefit the American people.
