OMB proposes sweeping changes to federal funding of research grants

The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has proposed sweeping changes to the Uniform Guidance for federal financial assistance which would tighten political oversight, restrict certain allowable costs, and formalize many of the executive orders which have been issued in the past year. The proposed changes would impact grants and funding provided across the entire federal government including funding by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) and numerous other federal agencies covering a wide array of research topics. The proposed changes would also add restrictions to how federal funds could be used by grantees.

AOTA will work with its partners in the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Coalition (DRRC) to urge OMB to address significant issues which could impact disability and OT/rehab research efforts. Formal comments are due by July 13. Organizations which receive federal grants are encouraged to file comments as well. The new regulations are scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026.