Federal Research Updates 2025

Last Update: April 16, 2025
This page will be updated as new information is made available.

For university-wide updates, visit WashU: Updates on Federal Impacts.

The current administration took office on January 20, 2025. Several Executive Orders have been issued, which may signal shifts in federal priorities. WashU is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with peer stakeholders.

Updates and resources related to Federal Executive Orders and other federal actions impacting federally-funded research can be found below.

Proposals
Awards
Executive Actions
Federal Agency Guidance
Resources
WashU Announcements
Pending Lawsuits

Proposals

Awards

  • The terms and conditions of an executed award remain enforceable so long as an award is active. This includes the ability to invoice and receive reimbursement.  Please continue with business as usual.
    • OMB memorandum M-25-13 has been rescinded. Federal agencies are not currently ordered to “temporarily pause all activities related to obligations or disbursement of all federal financial assistance.” – 1/29/2025
  • Changes are expected in requirements for research compliance and award reporting. These changes may come directly from the federal agency, or on a project-by-project basis. You may receive instructions from your Program Officer, and they should be promptly and strictly followed to ensure compliance and avoid jeopardizing funding. Any information the university receives regarding changes will be communicated broadly.
  • Exercise caution when considering project activation requests as they are at the risk of the department. See: Proposal Submission & Management During Ongoing Federal Litigation.

Executive Actions

Executive Action Types

  • An Executive Order (EO) directs government operations and has the force of law.
  • A Proclamation is a formal statement often ceremonial or symbolic.
  • A Memorandum provides policy guidance or instructions, typically less formal than an EO. 

Overview of All Executive Actions

Executive Directives Most Impacting Research

Federal Agency Guidance

CDC – Centers for Disease Control & Prevention

  • DEI Restrictions (Domestic) – 1/29/2025 – Rescinded

CHCO – Chief Human Capital Officers Council

DOD – Department of Defense

DOE – Department of Energy

DHHS – Department of Health and Human Services

  • Payment Management System (PMS) Payment Delays Due to Executive Orders – 1/27/2025
    • Effective immediately, PMS is only available during the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday. The limited hours are in effect until a further notice.
    • PAYMENT DELAYS: Due to Executive Orders regarding potentially unallowable grant payments, PMS is taking additional measures to process payments. Reviews of applicable programs and payments will result in delays and/or rejections of payments.

HRSA – Health Resources and Services Administration

NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NIH – National Institutes of Health

NIJ – National Institute of Justice

NSF – National Science Foundation

OPM – Office of Personnel Management

Resources

AAMC – Association of American Medical Colleges

COGR – Council on Government Relations

WashU Announcements

Pending Lawsuits

Lawsuits have been filed to challenge the legality of some of the new Executive Orders and Memoranda. However, recipients of federal funds are required to comply with guidance as it is issued until a determination is made by a judge. Below are some pending lawsuits that may result in temporary restraining orders or recent federal regulations being overturned or upheld.