Q: What is OMB Memo M-25-13?
A: OMB Memo M-25-13, issued on January 27, 2025, directs federal agencies to temporarily pause obligations and disbursements of federal financial assistance programs. The pause is intended to align financial assistance with the priorities of the current administration, as outlined in recent executive orders.
Q: What programs are affected by this pause?
A: Programs that are subject to review include grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs that:
- Fund foreign aid, nongovernmental organizations, or environmental agreements.
- Include diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or activities labeled as "equity-related."
- Involve activities inconsistent with new executive orders, such as programs promoting "gender ideology" or initiatives associated with the Green New Deal.
Q: Are there programs explicitly excluded from the pause?
A: Yes. The memo specifically excludes:
- Direct benefits to individuals, such as Pell Grants, Social Security, Medicare, and federal student loans.
- Statutorily mandated payments (e.g., Medicaid, SNAP).
Q: How does this affect federally funded research projects at the University of Nebraska?
A: Federal research grants are subject to this pause, particularly disbursements and new funding opportunities. Faculty with active grants should note:
- Current awards may experience delays in funding disbursements.
- New proposals under open Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) may face postponed reviews.
If your grant is affected, contact your campus research officers for guidance.
Q: What should students know about this pause?
A: Students receiving Pell Grants or federally backed direct loans will not be impacted. However, students involved in federally funded research projects or programs may see delays in funding or resources. Students with questions about financial aid should reach out to their Financial Aid Office for updates.
Q: What actions are required of University of Nebraska faculty and staff?
A: Faculty and staff involved with federally funded programs should:
- Monitor updates from their department or program administrators.
- Prepare for potential delays in disbursements and program reviews.
- Avoid incurring new obligations or expenditures related to federal funds until the pause is lifted.
For specific guidance, consult with your administrative unit or your campus research office.
Q: What steps is the University of Nebraska taking to address this situation?
A: The University of Nebraska System is actively:
- Monitoring federal agency communications and guidance related to Memo M-25-13.
- Collaborating with national higher education associations and peer institutions to clarify the scope of the pause.
- Supporting faculty, staff, and students with updated information and centralized resources.
Q: When will the pause end?
A: The duration of the pause has not been specified. Federal agencies must submit their program reviews to OMB by February 10, 2025, at which point OMB will provide additional guidance.