Congress has yet to pass legislation providing fiscal year (FY) 2020 funding for science. Government agencies, including the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health, have been operating under FY 2019 funding levels since FY 2020 began on October 1, 2019.
More than two months into FY 2020, Congress has passed two continuing resolutions to avert government shutdowns, but this stopgap approach expires on December 20 and stifles the government’s ability to initiate new programs.
NSF is the primary federal funding source for fundamental biological research at our nation’s universities and colleges. The agency provides nearly 69% of funding support for non-medical, fundamental biological and environmental research at academic institutions. Uncertainty in its funding allocations hinders scientific progress.
If funded at $9 billion, NSF can accelerate progress on its 10 Big Ideas, expand support for early career researchers, and create new interdisciplinary research programs. This investment will sustain core research and education programs that are vital to U.S. competitiveness.
Scientists interested in the National Science Foundation (NSF) should consider contacting their U.S. Representative and Senators to ask that they complete work on FY 2020 appropriations bills and provide NSF with $9 billion in FY 2020.
Individuals can send a letter to their members of Congress from the AIBS Legislative Action Center.