Fully fund scientific innovation, reject reckless budget cuts

The President's proposed budget would have catastrophic consequences for federal science agencies and the nation's scientific enterprise. Slashing over $1 billion in funding for programs aimed at broadening participation in STEM fields would severely undermine efforts to cultivate a diverse and talented workforce equipped to tackle complex challenges. The impact on the Earth and space science community would be particularly dire, as the National Science Foundation (NSF) funds 62% of all basic geoscience research at universities and academic institutions, with 93% of its budget disbursed through grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements. Steep cuts to the NSF's Graduate Research Fellowship Program would significantly reduce the pipeline of skilled scientists being trained, while reductions in infrastructure funding would jeopardize the maintenance and development of critical facilities. These draconian measures endanger America's standing as a global leader in scientific innovation and undermine our ability to address pressing issues ranging from climate change to public health crises. As members of Congress entrusted with the power of the purse, you must reject these reckless cuts and instead vote to fully fund and staff these vital agencies to safeguard the nation's future prosperity and security.