(Dec. 16, 2008) The title above utilizes the cliché du jour in Washington. We are expecting no additional relevant action in 2008 (when Congress reconvenes during the week of December 8, it will be to address the problems of the automobile industry). But January should be a different story.
As indicated last month, there will be an effort to have additional funds directed to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) included in the economic stimulus bill that Congress is expected to consider. A bill filed in November included $1.0 billion, but the steadily falling economy has created the possibility of a bigger overall stimulus bill (perhaps $400 billion, rather than $100 billion). This may create opportunities for a higher level of increase.
In addition, as much of the focus for the stimulus package has been on infrastructure improvements, the higher education community has argued that construction projects at public and private colleges and universities, whose facilities have long been neglected, should be considered. This argument has gotten traction with some on Capitol Hill and elsewhere, so additional funding opportunities may occur.
Finally, it now appears possible that Congress will attempt to pass in January the FY09 appropriations bills that have been languishing for months. If that happens, it could mean additional funding for such items as the diversity programs under Title VII, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and the NIH.
See other Appropriations information.