We wanted to provide an update on Solve M.E.’s recent advocacy campaign opposing the proposed federal grant rule that threatens the integrity of the nation’s scientific research system. Because of supporters like you who submitted comments and contacted policymakers, the research community’s concerns continue to be heard.
The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee has introduced bipartisan Continuing Resolution language that would pause implementation of the proposed Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rule until at least December 11, 2026, preventing it from taking effect while Congress continues to evaluate its impact. The provision is included in a short-term government funding measure that is expected to receive Senate consideration this week.
This is an encouraging sign that lawmakers from both parties recognize the serious concerns raised by the scientific, medical, patient advocacy, and higher education communities. Delaying the rule preserves time for continued oversight and helps protect the independent, merit-based research funding process that drives medical discoveries for ME/CFS, Long Covid, and other infection-associated chronic conditions.
Solve M.E. will continue monitoring developments closely and advocating for a federal research system that puts science and patients first. Thank you for adding your voice to this effort. Together, we are making a difference.
In the meantime, use our action kit to urge your lawmakers to press the Administration to withdraw or substantially revise the rule, and to use their oversight and appropriations authority to ensure that federal research funding is merit-based.
Click here to contact Congress.
Click here to read the Continuing Resolutions language.