1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

The abrupt decision by the Trump administration to cap National Institutes of Health (NIH) indirect costs at 15% will have devastating consequences for biomedical research in the United States. This policy change undermines established financial planning at research institutions nationwide, creating an overnight budget crisis that will force layoffs, reduce essential support staff, and jeopardize critical scientific studies. Indirect costs cover vital infrastructure, maintenance, and personnel needed to facilitate research discoveries that improve human health and drive economic growth. Cutting indirect costs will diminish widespread economic benefits, reduce groundbreaking research advances, and weaken the United States' competitive edge in science and technology. I urge you to publicly oppose this devastating policy change and work with Congress to immediately reverse the 15% indirect cost cap imposed on NIH grants. Prioritizing science is vital for national interests and sustained funding for NIH and NSF must be championed to safeguard American research, innovation, and immense economic opportunities.