On May 29, 2026, the White House Budget Office (OMB) published a lengthy set of draft regulations that, if implemented, would make sweeping changes to the way federally-funded science is done in the United States.

What Is Included in the Regulations?

Changes in the draft regulations include reducing the role peer review plays in awarding federal grants, a prohibition on the use of grant funding to pay journal publication costs, and the need for prior approval in order to attend scientific conferences with federal grant money. The regulations would allow the White House to terminate a grant with no notice and with no explanation. Significant restrictions would be placed on collaborations between federally funded American scientists and international scientists, especially those from “covered countries,” presumably including Russia, China, and Iran.

The most distressing aspect of the more than 400 pages of regulations is the proposed overhaul of peer review. Under the draft regulations, peer review would no longer play its current role and would instead become “advisory.” A new “pre-issuance review process” would be established to allow “senior appointees” to review each proposal to make sure they “advance the President’s priorities.”

What Effect Will They Have on U.S. Science?

These regulations apply to all science supported by the federal government, including the life sciences, physical sciences, and social sciences. Taken as a whole, these regulations would make significant changes to the way science is done in the United States, calling into question the unbiased nature of the science funded by the federal government. That would significantly alter America’s leadership position in the world. International students would be less likely to come to American academic institutions to study and possibly stay after completing their studies.

The regulations could also negatively impact the American economy because of the major role research and development plays in the U.S. economy. Scientific research drives innovation, supports high-skilled jobs, and helps create new technologies and industries.

The ASCB has submited comments opposing the draft regulations.

What Should I Do?

Before draft regulations can become final, they must be available for review and comment by the public. The agency must then review the comments and consider whether changes should be made to the regulations before being published. The public comment period is now open until July 13, 2026. For information on how to make comments and what you should include in your comments, refer to the ASCB’s Advocacy Alert.

Once you submit your comments, strongly encourage lab mates, colleagues, friends, and others who benefit from federally supported research to submit their own comments.

Kevin M. Wilson serves as Vice President, Policy, Governance and Partnerships for The American Society for Cell Biology. He's worked as the Legislative Director for U.S. Congressman Robert Weygand (D-RI) and as a Legislative Assistant for U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell (D-RI). He has a BA in Politics and American Government from the Catholic University of America. Email: kwilson@ascb.org