ASBMB statement on stopgap spending plan released by policymakers

Congressional leaders Monday night released a stopgap funding proposal to avert a government shutdown when federal funding runs out in three days. If passed, the bill would fund the federal government through Dec. 16 and keep spending at the same levels as enacted for fiscal year 2022. The legislation also includes a few extra spending measures to address climate change-related crises and funding for a low-income home heating program.

While averting a government shutdown is top priority and we appreciate the effort, continuing resolutions are damaging to the American research enterprise, and we urge congressional leaders to pass a full budget for FY23 as soon as possible. As we’ve said before, continuing resolutions freeze federal funds that are necessary for scientific research, and once a spending agreement is reached the sudden influx of funding results in inefficient spending.

In addition, keeping spending levels the same for federal agencies such as the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy prevents them from realizing the benefits passed in the CHIPS and Science Act in August. The CHIPS and Science Act contains many provisions that are critical to the bioeconomy and that will ensure the U.S. research enterprise continues to thrive and compete on a global scale. By holding back funds meant to support the provisions in the CHIPS and Science Act, Congress is stifling scientific progress.

Congress must come to an agreement and enact a full spending bill for FY23 as soon as possible. Scientific progress depends on it.