Stanford updates and resources on federal issues

Stanford is monitoring federal directives that are related to or have the potential to impact federally funded research, work that fuels American innovation, boosts the economy, drives job growth, and strengthens national security and competitiveness. As it responds to federal directives, Stanford is collaborating with the Association of American Universities and other organizations and peer universities.

In an announcement on Feb. 7, the National Institutes of Health said it would cap indirect costs in NIH grants to universities. On April 7, a federal judge issued a permanent injunction that prevents the NIH from implementing the 15 percent cap on indirect costs. The NIH is appealing the ruling. In addition, a federal judge in April issued a temporary restraining order to block the U.S. Department of Energy from capping indirect costs at 15 percent.

The Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Research is providing guidance to researchers on steps they should take based on the announcements of individual agencies. While Stanford has not experienced many grant cancellations from the NIH and other federal agencies, the university remains concerned about policies that may undermine American leadership in science and technology and could negatively impact life-saving research.

President Trump issued an executive order on Jan. 21 that broadly seeks to “combat illegal private-sector DEI preferences, mandates, policies, programs, and activities.” A district court initially blocked elements of the order. A few weeks later, a federal appellate court paused the district court’s preliminary injunction pending appeal. The Department of Education also issued a “Dear Colleague” letter on Feb. 14 and related Frequently Asked Questions on Feb. 28. A federal court blocked the Department of Education from enforcing or implementing the Dear Colleague letter and FAQs. Stanford continues to review these issues carefully with a commitment to academic freedom and to fostering an environment in which all members of the university community can thrive.

The federal administration has issued executive orders related to immigration. Stanford does not have a role in immigration enforcement, and federal immigration enforcement actions to date have not focused on universities. As federal immigration policy evolves, we are committed to our legal obligations to protect the privacy rights of members of our community. Stanford keeps student and personnel records private and does not share such information with immigration agencies unless legally compelled to do so.

In addition to many executive orders related to immigration, the administration on June 4 issued a travel ban for nationals of more than a dozen countries. Stanford has a variety of resources for affected community members. International students with questions about immigration status should start by contacting the Bechtel International Center. Undocumented or DACAmented students with questions about immigration status should contact Undocumented Student Services.