November 13, 2025
The co-chairs of the Science and Technology Action Committee (STAC), a nonpartisan alliance of nonprofit, academic, foundation, and business leaders advocating for greater focus and funding of science and technology, issued the following statement regarding Congress reaching an agreement to reopen the federal government:
The federal government’s reopening allows the nation’s science and technology (S&T) enterprise to return to the critical work that underpins American health, prosperity, and security. While we are relieved that scientists and researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and other agencies can resume their work, this latest disruption has once again highlighted the fragility of the research ecosystem and the long-term damage that funding interruptions cause to scientific progress, careers, and innovation.
However, with most federal agencies now funded only through January 30, 2026, Congress must act quickly to finalize an FY26 budget that delivers sufficient investment in the S&T enterprise. Strong, forward-looking appropriations, such as the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies bill, for NSF, NASA, and other federal science research agencies will help ensure America maintains its competitive edge during a time of fierce global competition. With stable, robust investment, Congress can ensure that Americans across the country continue to reap the benefits of the next generation of breakthrough cures and innovations.