Congress has begun debating funding levels for federal programs for fiscal year (FY) 2027. Please show your support for the National Science Foundation (NSF) by asking your Senators to sign a Dear Colleague Letter in support of at least $9.9 billion for the agency in 2027.
NSF is the primary federal funding source for fundamental biological research at our nation’s universities and colleges, allocating nearly 94% of its budget directly to research projects, facilities, and STEM education. In recent years, however, NSF funding has failed to keep pace with our nation’s competitiveness needs. While the landmark CHIPS and Science Act demonstrated a bipartisan commitment to advancing U.S. science and innovation, actual appropriations continue to lag significantly behind authorized levels. Continued failure to meet these targets results in billions of dollars in lost opportunities for American discovery.
An effort is now underway in the Senate to build support for the agency. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) is circulating a Dear Colleague Letter calling on Congress to provide at least $9.9 billion for NSF in FY 2027 to ensure the U.S. remains a global leader in science and engineering.
Please take a few moments to ask your Senators to sign the Markey Dear Colleague Letter. The deadline for Senators to be added to the letter is Noon ET on Monday, April 13, 2026. We have included a template letter for your convenience but you are encouraged to personalize the message.
Stay current on the latest science policy news. Subscribe to our bi-weekly AIBS Public Policy Report.