On January 27, 2025, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued Memo M-25-13, which pauses specific federal financial assistance programs to align them with the new administration's priorities and recent executive orders. This memo has implications for research, grants, and other federally funded initiatives across the University of Nebraska System. Here’s what you need to know:
UPDATE (1/29/25): The Office of Management and Budget has rescinded M-25-13. Executive orders remain in effect, and federal agencies are continuing to review existing grants for compliance.
Key Points from the Memo:
- Exclusions: Programs providing direct benefits to individuals, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, are not impacted.
- Temporary Pause: Federal agencies must pause obligations or disbursements related to open awards, funding announcements, and merit review panels.
- Reporting Deadline: Agencies are required to submit detailed analyses of affected programs to OMB by February 10, 2025.
University Action Plan:
Our administration is actively assessing the scope of this pause and its impact on our federally sponsored research, grants, and programs. Here’s how we are responding:
- Collaborating with Federal Agencies: We are in contact with key agencies to understand and navigate the requirements outlined in Memo M-25-13. As agencies release guidance, we will post them under “Resources” below.
- Monitoring Updates: A dedicated team is tracking developments and working to minimize disruptions to university activities.
- Resource Development: A centralized webpage will provide updates, FAQs, and guidance for students, faculty, and staff affected by these changes.
Additional Guidance for Students and Faculty:
- Research Projects: Researchers with current federal awards should reach out to their respective administrative units for specific advice and guidance.
- Pending Applications: Those with pending proposals under open Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) should expect delays.
- Student Aid: At this time, there is no impact on federal Pell Grants or direct student loans.
Communications from University Leadership:
Resources:
- OMB Memo M-25-13 (PDF)
- OMB Question and Answer Document (PDF)
- NU FAQs for Faculty, Staff and Students (Webpage)
- Department of Energy