The Science Coalition: “Congress Must Continue to Support U.S. Competitiveness by Investing in Science”
Proposed cuts would negatively impact funding for critical federal research agencies, restrict innovation
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Science Coalition, representing over 50 of the nation’s leading public and private research universities, expressed concern over proposed cuts to some federal science agencies contained in the first fiscal year (FY) 2024 “minibus” appropriations package released by Congress. Cuts to select federal science agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF), will restrict U.S. research and innovation, impede progress on critical societal challenges, and jeopardize America’s scientific leadership.
“While trends vary by agency, proposed cuts to vital federal science agencies like NSF are troubling,” said TSC President Dr. Jill Pentimonti. “Specifically, NSF faces a reduction below the enacted level in its baseline funding. Additionally, the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI), which funds research at colleges and universities, would also see a reduction below the current level, putting programs that benefit rural communities and the nation’s agricultural economy at risk. More positively, the Energy Department’s Office of Science would receive a two percent increase.
“Cutting funding hampers research, innovation, and global competitiveness, hindering progress on societal challenges and jeopardizing scientific leadership,” Pentimonti continued. “While we understand the budgetary constraints in which Congress must operate, TSC urges Congress to prioritize research funding for the remainder of FY 2024 and beyond, recognizing science appropriations as an investment in our future prosperity, security, and well-being.”
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About The Science Coalition
The Science Coalition is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization comprising more than 50 of the nation’s leading public and private research universities. Established in 1994, it is dedicated to sustaining the federal government’s investment in fundamental scientific research to stimulate the economy, spur innovation, and drive American competitiveness.