The stopgap funding bill supported by Senate Republicans seeks to delay a controversial plan from the Trump administration. This plan intends to place political appointees in control of substantial federal grants.
The provision is an unusual move by congressional Republicans against the administration. However, the bill’s effectiveness is limited to December 11, allowing the proposal to potentially take effect after that date.
A proposal from the Office of Management and Budget faced significant criticism. An analysis revealed that nearly 500,000 comments were submitted; 95 percent were negative. If implemented, the proposal would empower awarding offices to revoke federal grants without cause. Additionally, it would convert uniform guidance into binding regulations, reducing agency flexibility.
“When you have grant review processes subject to arbitrary decision by a political appointee, it results in less accountability and transparency,” explained Cole Donovan, Stand Up for Science’s policy director.
Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chair of the Appropriations Committee, advocated for changes to the rule. She expressed relief that the provision was incorporated into the spending bill. Collins emphasized the rule’s potential to politicize grants and negatively impact small communities and biomedical research.
Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) partnered with Collins on the provision. Although she aimed to eliminate the proposal, Republicans opposed its complete removal. Murray stated, “Enabling this rule would give Trump leverage to further tamper with federal funding.” She vowed to continue her efforts against the proposal.
Welcome to The Hill’s Healthcare newsletter featuring changes in healthcare policies and impacts:
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed the measles vaccine while spreading misinformation on other vaccines and the measles outbreaks. Despite expressing false claims, Kennedy acknowledged the safety of the measles vaccine.
A lawsuit was filed by the Human Rights Campaign challenging a ban on gender-affirming care in federal workers’ health insurance. The suit alleges workplace sex discrimination by the Trump administration.
Michigan’s Health Department reported two deaths from cyclosporiasis, with the victims suffering from underlying health issues and dehydration. As of now, Michigan is dealing with over 11,000 cases of the disease.
On Our Radar:
- The Senate Budget Committee prepares for a Tuesday hearing on Medicaid.
- The Senate Finance Subcommittee will address building a resilient healthcare future at a hearing.
In Other News:
Former U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro faced criticism from President Trump for withdrawing charges in a vandalism case involving U.S. Olympian David Hearn.
Local Headlines:
- Virginia’s hemp industry challenges state-imposed THC limits.
- Trump’s early implementation of Medicaid work requirements.
- Missouri sees an increase in mail-order abortion pills from external providers.
Health News:
- Eli Lilly opens access to unapproved obesity drug applications.
- Rural hospitals face challenges under new legislation.
- State Department reinstates some global health aid.
You’re updated. See you tomorrow!
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