1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF) are vital sources of funding for critical scientific research in the United States. The administration's recent decision to cap indirect costs for these agencies will create an immediate and devastating funding shortfall at research institutions nationwide. This move undermines years of financial planning and will force layoffs, jeopardizing breakthrough discoveries and economic growth driven by NIH and NSF funding. Every dollar of NIH funding generates $2.46 in economic activity, supporting over 400,000 jobs in 2023 alone and generating nearly $93 billion for the economy. NIH research has led to life-saving treatments for cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders and more. NSF is a crucial funder across all scientific fields, including computational and cybersecurity research crucial to national security. Cutting indirect costs, which cover essential infrastructure, facilities, and staff salaries, will hamstring America's scientific enterprise. This decision strikes at the heart of U.S. innovation and economic competitiveness. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse this harmful policy and restore full funding for the NIH and NSF. The long-term costs of stunting American leadership in science and technology far outweigh any perceived short-term savings. Our nation's future depends on robust investment in research and development. Please prioritize this issue and work to protect the vital work of the NIH and NSF.