Attorneys general from 22 states have filed a lawsuit to block the Trump administration’s plan to cut funding for research grants to universities and institutions across the U.S. The legal action was taken in U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts on Monday.
The lawsuit claims that the cuts to indirect research costs, which support essential research functions like utilities and administrative staff, will severely impact public health research. The attorneys general argue that without these funds, critical research aimed at curing and treating diseases will come to a halt.
On Friday, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced a new policy setting a 15 percent cap on indirect cost payments. These costs cover essential services such as facilities and administrative support for research projects.
The announcement quickly drew concern from scientists, universities, and Democratic lawmakers. “Every American has benefited from NIH-supported research, and every American will be harmed by undermining this vital partnership between academic institutions and the federal government,” said David J. Skorton, president of the Association of American Medical Colleges, in a joint statement.
The NIH revealed that $9 billion of the $35 billion in research grants distributed last year went to overhead costs. The agency estimates the new policy will save the government $4 billion annually, though it is unclear if these savings will be redirected to increase direct funding for research.
The lawsuit seeks an immediate restraining order to halt the policy, which took effect Monday morning. The attorneys general argue that the NIH’s move violates a 2018 law that prohibits the agency from changing indirect cost rates without proper authorization from Congress.
The lawsuit also warns that the cuts could have long-term consequences for the nation’s research infrastructure and its ability to make life-saving scientific breakthroughs.
Read more:
- MIT’s Groundbreaking Wearable Fiber Computer To Revolutionize Health Monitoring
- Lack Of Sleep Could Lead To Serious Health Issues And A Shorter Life, Experts Warn
- Concerns Over Flu Vaccine Supply Following FDA’s Cancelled Meeting
