--- title: "Updates and Guidance Related to Federal Executive Orders, Memos and Agency Guidance" date: 2025-03-12T17:20:00-04:00 author: apccello canonical_url: "https://govrelations.umd.edu/federal-relations/executive-orders-memos-and-federal-regulations" section: Pages --- # Updates and Guidance Related to Federal Executive Orders, Memos and Agency Guidance *Federal Relations* **Updates & Guidance Related to Federal Executive Orders, Memos & Agency Guidance** ### UPDATED: March 24, 2026 As the federal landscape evolves, we are committed to providing information about executive orders, memorandums and guidance that may affect our work and community at the University of Maryland. While many of these directives are still being evaluated to understand impact, we will provide updates as information is verified. This page serves as a central hub for updates and resources related to relevant federal actions. --- - **Announcing New Research Resilience Initiatives** - **Message from UMCP Provost Rice and UMB Provost Ward: $7.5M MPower Early Scholars Investment Fund** - **Message from Vice President for Research Pat O'Shea: Impact of Potential Government Shutdown** - **Message from President Darryll J. Pines and Provost Jennifer King Rice: Our Response to Federal Changes** - **Message from President Pines and Provost Rice: Monitoring and Navigating the Evolving Federal Landscape** - **Message from President Pines and Provost Rice: Potential Higher Education Impacts Amidst a Changing Federal Landscape** - **Guidance on Government Enforcement Officials (including ICE) actions, and limits to non-public spaces and information** ## Executive Orders by Topic ### Research **NOTE:** If you are a researcher who has received a stop work order or otherwise been notified that your grant has been terminated or changed, please contact your ORA Contract Administrator immediately. To find up-to-date news for specific federal agencies, FAQs and guidance regarding awards and proposals, and further resources, please visit the [Division of Research Federal Funding Updates page](https://research.umd.edu/federalupdates). **Important Links:** - March 2, 2026: [GSA Notice: System for Award Management Registration Requirements for Financial Assistance Recipients](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/01/28/2026-01676/information-collection-system-for-award-management-registration-requirements-for-financial?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGgEYTQB-zwLfjgS5SortvzDRmEgMsyjRVtm4S7TLcwpiAOupY64h9btsDpqYXIfMNE3eiyYasvemLUL8TG7hAvfUTW6zzn1SG52aAXtJxZhA) - February 18, 2026: [Federal Court Decision: AAU, APLU, ACE and 12 Universities (Including UMD) File Lawsuit Against the DOD](https://www.aau.edu/resources-aau-ace-aplu-legal-action-contesting-dod-cuts-fa-reimbursement-rates) - January 7, 2026: [Federal Court Case: First Circuit Court of Appeals Upholds Block on NIH Cuts F&A in APLU, AAU, & ACE Litigation](https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/blog/2026/01/07/first-circuit-court-of-appeals-upholds-block-of-cuts-to-nih-fa-reimbursement-in-aplu-aau-ace-litigation/) - August 7, 2025: [Executive Order: Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/improving-oversight-of-federal-grantmaking/) - July 14, 2025: [Federal Court Case: Judge Overturns NSF’s 15% Cap on Indirect Costs](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.284307/gov.uscourts.mad.284307.77.0_1.pdf) - June 17, 2025: [Press Release: Maryland Attorney General Brown Applauds Judge’s Ruling Blocking Trump Administration from Illegally Cutting Funds for Medical and Public Health Research](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/press/2025/061725.pdf) - June 16: [Federal Court Case: AAU, APLU, ACE and 12 Universities (Including UMD) File Lawsuit Against the DOD](https://www.aau.edu/sites/default/files/AAU-Files/Key-Issues/Research-Administration-Regulation/Costs-of-Research/AAU%20v%20DOD%20Complaint%206.16.25.pdf) - June 11, 2025: [Federal Court Case: 24 Universities File Amicus Brief in Support of Harvard Lawsuit](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.283718/gov.uscourts.mad.283718.148.0.pdf) - May 28, 2025: [Federal Court Case: 16 State Attorneys General File Lawsuit Against the NSF](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/News%20Documents/1.pdf) - May 23, 2025: [Executive Order: Restoring Gold Standard Science](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/05/restoring-gold-standard-science/) - May 14, 2025: [DOD Memo: Implementation of a 15% Indirect Cost Cap on Assistance Awards to Institutions of Higher Education](https://www.cogr.edu/sites/default/files/Implementation%20of%20a%2015%20Percent%20Indirect%20Cost%20Cap%20on%20Assistance%20Awards%20to%20Institutions._.pdf) - May 5, 2025: [Federal Court Case: AAU, APLU & ACE Legal Challenge to NSF Indirect Cost Rates](https://www.aau.edu/sites/default/files/AAU-Files/Key-Issues/Research-Administration-Regulation/Costs-of-Research/AAU-NSF-Complaint.pdf) - May 2, 2025: NSF Memo: [NSF Memo: Policy Notice: Implementation of Standard 15% Indirect Cost Rate](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/document/indirect-cost-rate) - May 5, 2025: [Executive Order: Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/05/improving-the-safety-and-security-of-biological-research/?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGaULixivG-Djbf5YOMlpGEyGgWPTq1BaeRXB-8khIp6cycI3nQq2geLLkMMQSUFvhj5ZH2qULBRSgbzpcd4rFmQSga5CBCcrS5-g7MzvZnFA) - April 25, 2025: [Federal Court Case: Harvard Files Federal Lawsuit Against 9 Federal Agency](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.283718/gov.uscourts.mad.283718.1.0_1.pdf) - April 23, 2025: [Executive Order: Transparency Regarding Foreign Influence at American Universities"](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/transparency-regarding-foreign-influence-at-american-universities/) - April 21, 2025: [NIH Notice: Notice of Civil Rights Term and Condition of Award](https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-090.html) - April 18, 2025: [NSF Memo: Updates on NSF Priorities](https://www.nsf.gov/updates-on-priorities#:~:text=National%20Science%20Foundation-,Frequently%20asked%20questions,-1.%20Why%20is) - April 14, 2025: [Federal Court Case: APLU, AAU, & ACE Legal Challenge to Cuts to Critical Energy Research](https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/news/aplu-aau-ace-legal-challenge-to-cuts-to-critical-energy-research/?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGZ1BXXdju1byDGlxrZZbD_vRAeD9C3QHDF4vausSccjHlPgQkuAZ_k2PuTa-n-4YxcqrZTGt-GgS5HX5wbN9Rq2Qvv5Xt22Wz45Ub_wQsjkSw) - April 11, 2025: [Department of Energy Announcement: Department of Energy Overhauls Policy for College and University Research, Saving $405 Million Annually for American Taxpayers](https://www.energy.gov/articles/department-energy-overhauls-policy-college-and-university-research-saving-405-million?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGZxoUeHyNxPqoFM-KMgybJNUzKne3-o3IgX_QTC8ONkhfAP6tBH6G8QJF1UDm_9-9KOSiJMWsVnfh8NR3UVXmvfhEinGOPCZStWSaz0bKqsQ) - April 4, 2025: [Supreme Court Ruling: U.S. Supreme Court Overturns Lower Court Decision and Permits Termination of Teacher Training Grants](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25879966-24a910-order/) - April 4, 2025: [Federal Court Case: 16 State Attorneys General File Lawsuit Against the NIH and DHHS](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/News%20Documents/040425_Complaint_Massachusetts_v_Kennedy_AS_FILED.pdf) - March 27, 2025: [Executive Order: Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/restoring-truth-and-sanity-to-american-history/) - March 10, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Myong J. Joun Issues Temporary Restraining Order Preventing the Termination of Teacher Training Grants](https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/legaldocs/klpymzywxpg/03102025teacher_grant.pdf) - March 6, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. Grants Preliminary Injunction Indefinitely Preventing the Freezing of Federal Funds](https://www.rid.uscourts.gov/sites/rid/files/16112325032NYT.pdf) - March 5, 2025: [Supreme Court Emergency Ruling: U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Lower Court's Decision to Compel Foreign Aid Payments](https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/24a831_3135.pdf) - February 27, 2025: [Executive Order: Implementing the President's "Department of Government Efficiency" Cost Efficiency Initiative](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/implementing-the-presidents-department-of-government-efficiency-cost-efficiency-initiative/) - February 25, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan Extends the Temporary Restraining Order Preventing the Pause on Federal Spending](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.276842/gov.uscourts.dcd.276842.51.0.pdf) - February 21, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley Extends Temporary Restraining Order Preventing NIH Indirect Cost Rate Change](https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69625055/commonwealth-of-massachusetts-v-national-institutes-of-health/) - February 17, 2025: [ED Memo: U.S. Department of Education Cuts Over $600 Million in Divisive Teacher Training Grants](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-cuts-over-600-million-divisive-teacher-training-grants) - February 13, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Amir Ali Issues Temporary Restraining Order Preventing Freeze on Foreign Aid Payments](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.277333/gov.uscourts.dcd.277333.17.0.pdf) - February 10, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley Issues Temporary Restraining Order Preventing NIH Indirect Cost Rate Change](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.280590/gov.uscourts.mad.280590.25.0.pdf) - February 10, 2025: [Complaint for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief Filed in Federal Court in Response to Feb. 7 NIH Notice](https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ECF%20001%20Complaint%20-%20Mass.%20v.%20NIH%20%281%29.pdf?VersionId=_KAPAGl0Aq6DYwZOGPY6vWfal7Riqqs9) - February 7, 2025: [NIH Notice: Supplemental Guidance to the 2024 NIH Grants Policy Statement: Indirect Cost Rates](https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-068.html) - January 31, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. Issues Temporary Restraining Order Preventing the Pause of Federal Spending](https://umd.box.com/s/yq4rnoe59b12lvbblqt5luep66s2icdo) - January 29, 2025: [OMB Memo: Rescission of M-25-13 Temporary Pause of Agency Grant, Loan, and Other Financial Assistance](https://media2.spaceref.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/29132432/29JanOMB.jpg) - January 28, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan Issues Temporary Stay on the Pause of Federal Spending](https://umd.box.com/s/px03asbbv9e28s70j3mr2m3zy4no4t1q) - January 28, 2025: [OMB Memo: Clarification Regarding Temporary Pause of Agency Grant, Loan, and Other Financial Assistance](https://aplu-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/OMB_Q_A_M-25-13.pdf?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGYTaaPYY1opDAGZ2BiVBVfbykv-bwmMPvPrEqlZMQ86qlS4-dw-H6qSFUjtg_2KZPiWj8-oNtC_3BUvGgsgcPH4fcueMQ2Y0f9kc0kE0mAnw) - January 27, 2025: [OMB Memo: Temporary Pause of Agency Grant, Loan, and Other Financial Assistance](https://www.washingtonpost.com/documents/deb7af80-48b6-4b8a-8bfa-3d84fd7c3ec8.pdf) - January 21, 2025: [HHS Memo: Immediate Pause on Issuing Documents and Public Communication](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25502931-acting-hhs-secretary-communications-memo-1-21-25/) - January 20, 2025: [Executive Order: Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/reevaluating-and-realigning-united-states-foreign-aid/) --- **Additional Information:** On January 20, the administration issued an executive order titled "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid." The order issues a 90 day pause on disbursements for foreign aid programs and could have an impact on certain research. On February 13, a federal judge in the District of Columbia issued a [temporary restraining order](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.277333/gov.uscourts.dcd.277333.17.0.pdf) (TRO) preventing the pause on disbursements for work completed on the government's behalf prior to that date, and on February 25, the same judge [denied](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.277333/gov.uscourts.dcd.277333.39.0_2.pdf) the administration's motion to stay the TRO and set a payment deadline of February 26. On February 26, Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts [paused the TRO](https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/022625zr_8758.pdf) to allow the Supreme Court time to review the administration's request to lift it. On March 5, the United States Supreme Court issued a [decision](https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/24a831_3135.pdf) upholding the lower court's order requiring the disbursement of funds. On January 21, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a [memo](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25502931-acting-hhs-secretary-communications-memo-1-21-25/) pausing public communications from all HHS agencies—including the CDC, FDA and NIH—and subsequently instructed staff to suspend all work-related travel and grant reviews. On February 4, HHS issued internal guidance and procedures allowing certain external communications, travel and grant reviews to resume. On January 27, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memo directing federal agencies to temporarily pause all activities related to federal financial assistance or that may be implicated by recent executive orders. On January 29, a federal judge in the District of Columbia issued a [temporary stay](https://umd.app.box.com/s/px03asbbv9e28s70j3mr2m3zy4no4t1q) on the memo (this stay was [continued](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.276842/gov.uscourts.dcd.276842.51.0.pdf) on February 25). OMB [rescinded the memo](https://media2.spaceref.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/29132432/29JanOMB.jpg) the same day but continued to pause certain federal financial assistance. On January 31, another federal judge in Rhode Island granted a [temporary restraining order](https://umd.app.box.com/s/yq4rnoe59b12lvbblqt5luep66s2icdo) (TRO) blocking the administration from freezing federal loans, grants and other financial assistance. On February 10, that federal judge [reinforced the TRO and ordered the administration to immediately restore frozen funding](https://www.rid.uscourts.gov/sites/rid/files/OrderonEnforcement.pdf) in response to claims that federal agencies continue to improperly freeze federal funds, and on March 6, the same judge granted a [preliminary injunction](https://www.rid.uscourts.gov/sites/rid/files/16112325032NYT.pdf) that prevents the freezing of federal funds indefinitely. On February 7, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued a [notice](https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-068.html) that, effective immediately, all payments made by the NIH to universities, hospitals, research institutions and other grantees for “indirect costs”—which include costs related to facilities and administration—will be capped at a 15% rate. The change applies to both new and existing grant awards. The Division of Research has issued [guidance](https://research.umd.edu/federalupdates#NIHGuidance) to individuals on campus that receive NIH support and/or plan to submit an NIH proposal. On February 10, 22 state attorney generals, including Attorney General Anthony Brown for the State of Maryland, [filed suit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the NIH](https://coag.gov/app/uploads/2025/02/ECF-001-Complaint-Mass.-v.-NIH-1.pdf) to seek injunctive relief from the NIH notice. The same day, a federal judge in Massachusetts issued a [Temporary Restraining Order](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.280590/gov.uscourts.mad.280590.25.0.pdf) (TRO) preventing the NIH from enacting the rate change. On February 21, that judge [extended the order](https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69625055/commonwealth-of-massachusetts-v-national-institutes-of-health/) until a further order is issued resolving the request for a preliminary injunction. On February 17, the Department of Education announced the [termination of over $600 million in teacher training grants](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-cuts-over-600-million-divisive-teacher-training-grants). On March 10, a federal judge in Massachusetts issued a [temporary restraining order](https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/legaldocs/klpymzywxpg/03102025teacher_grant.pdf) preventing the termination of the grants. On April 4, the U.S. Supreme Court [overturned the temporary restraining order](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25879966-24a910-order/) to allow termination of the grants to move forward. On February 27, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Implementing the President's 'Department of Government Efficiency' Cost Efficiency Initiative."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/implementing-the-presidents-department-of-government-efficiency-cost-efficiency-initiative/) The order seeks to review and centralize all federal discretionary payments, including grants, projects and loans, under DOGE. Agency heads are tasked with immediately reviewing all grants and contracts and, notably, "the process... shall prioritize the review of funds disbursed under covered contracts and grants to educational institutions and foreign entities for waste, fraud, and abuse." Each agency head is instructed to complete this review within 30 days and determine if terminations or modifications are needed in order to promote efficiency or decrease spending. Once the review is completed, agency employees are instructed to publicly submit "brief, written justifications" prior to that employee's approval of a future payment for covered contracts and grants. There are also provisions freezing agency employee travel. On March 27, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/restoring-truth-and-sanity-to-american-history/) The order impacts the Smithsonian Institution and "prohibit\[s\] expenditure on exhibits or programs that degrade shared American values, divide Americans based on race, or promote programs or ideologies inconsistent with Federal law and policy," which could have implications on projects conducted in partnership with Smithsonian museums and research centers. On April 4, 16 state attorneys general, including Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, filed a [federal lawsuit](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/press/2025/040425.pdf) seeking injunctive relief against the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The lawsuit argues that "by postponing meetings, delaying the review of pending applications, failing to issue final recommendations, and terminating issued grants, NIH is failing to meet its statutory obligations and violating applicable regulations." On June 16, a federal judge [issued a joint ruling](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/press/2025/061725.pdf) in this case and one other that the administration's decision to terminate hundreds of grants for medical and public health research shows "clear" evidence of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and racial minorities and declared the terminations "illegal" and "void." On April 11, the Department of Energy [announced](https://www.energy.gov/articles/department-energy-overhauls-policy-college-and-university-research-saving-405-million?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGZxoUeHyNxPqoFM-KMgybJNUzKne3-o3IgX_QTC8ONkhfAP6tBH6G8QJF1UDm_9-9KOSiJMWsVnfh8NR3UVXmvfhEinGOPCZStWSaz0bKqsQ) that, similar to the previous announcement by the National Institutes of Health, it would cap indirect cost rates for colleges and universities at 15%. The announcement further states that, "Consistent with this memorandum, the Department is undertaking action to terminate all grant awards to IHEs that do not conform with this updated policy." On April 14, the Association of Public Land-grant Universities (APLU), the Association of American Universities (AAU), and the American Council on Education (ACE) filed a [lawsuit](https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/news/aplu-aau-ace-legal-challenge-to-cuts-to-critical-energy-research/?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGZ1BXXdju1byDGlxrZZbD_vRAeD9C3QHDF4vausSccjHlPgQkuAZ_k2PuTa-n-4YxcqrZTGt-GgS5HX5wbN9Rq2Qvv5Xt22Wz45Ub_wQsjkSw) against the Department of Energy seeking a halt to the proposed indirect cost rate cut. On January 20, 2026, a federal judge granted the Department of Energy's motion to withdraw their appeal of previous decisions in the case, removing the indirect cost cap for Department of Energy grants. On April 18, the National Science Foundation (NSF) issued[ updated guidance](https://www.nsf.gov/updates-on-priorities#:~:text=National%20Science%20Foundation-,Frequently%20asked%20questions,-1.%20Why%20is) on agency priorities. The guidance states that research projects with more narrow impact limited to subgroups of people based on protected class or characteristics do not effectuate NSF priorities. The guidance further states that NSF will not support research with the goal of combating ‘misinformation,’ ‘disinformation,’ and ‘malinformation'. All awards that “are not aligned” with NSF’s mission have been terminated and this guidance will apply to future funding considerations. On April 21, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued[ new terms and conditions](https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-090.html) for all new, renewal, supplement, or continuation awards issued on or after the date of the notice. The new terms require applicants to certify that they do not, and will not during the term of this financial assistance award, operate any programs that advance or promote DEI, DEIA, or discriminatory equity ideology in violation of Federal anti-discrimination laws. Applicants must also verify that they do not engage in and will not during the term of this award engage in a discriminatory prohibited boycott. On April 23, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Transparency Regarding Foreign Influence at American Universities."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/transparency-regarding-foreign-influence-at-american-universities/) The order directs the Secretary of Education to "take appropriate to require universities to more specifically disclose details about foreign funding, including the true source and purpose of the funds," and to conduct audits, investigations and enforcement actions on institutions deemed non-compliant. On April 25, Harvard University filed a [federal lawsuit](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.283718/gov.uscourts.mad.283718.148.0.pdf) against the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Justice, the Department of Education, the General Services Administration, the Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in response to the freezing of more than $2 billion in federal funds. On June 11, 24 colleges and universities, including the University of Maryland, signed an [amicus brief](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.283718/gov.uscourts.mad.283718.148.0.pdf) in support of Harvard's legal case. On May 2, the National Science Foundation [announced](https://www.nsf.gov/policies/document/indirect-cost-rate) that, similar to the previous announcements by the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy, it would cap indirect cost rates for colleges and universities at 15%. On May 5, the Association of American Universities, the American Council on Education, and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities [filed a joint lawsuit](https://www.aau.edu/sites/default/files/AAU-Files/Key-Issues/Research-Administration-Regulation/Costs-of-Research/AAU-NSF-Complaint.pdf) to prevent the implementation of a 15% cap on indirect cost rates. The NSF has paused the policy until a hearing is held on June 13. On May 5, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/05/improving-the-safety-and-security-of-biological-research/?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGaULixivG-Djbf5YOMlpGEyGgWPTq1BaeRXB-8khIp6cycI3nQq2geLLkMMQSUFvhj5ZH2qULBRSgbzpcd4rFmQSga5CBCcrS5-g7MzvZnFA) The order restricts federal funding of "gain-of-function" research which may affect funding and compliance requirements for university researchers whose research involves potentially dangerous pathogens. On May 14, the Department of Defense [announced](https://www.cogr.edu/sites/default/files/Implementation%20of%20a%2015%20Percent%20Indirect%20Cost%20Cap%20on%20Assistance%20Awards%20to%20Institutions._.pdf) that, similar to the previous announcements by the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, it would cap indirect cost rates for colleges and universities at 15%. On June 16, the AAU, APLU, ACE and 12 universities including the University of Maryland, College Park filed a [federal lawsuit](https://www.aau.edu/sites/default/files/AAU-Files/Key-Issues/Research-Administration-Regulation/Costs-of-Research/AAU%20v%20DOD%20Complaint%206.16.25.pdf) to prevent the implementation of a 15% cap on indirect cost rates. On February 18, 2026, a federal judge [granted the government's motion to dismiss](https://www.aau.edu/resources-aau-ace-aplu-legal-action-contesting-dod-cuts-fa-reimbursement-rates) its appeals of previous decisions in the case, vacating the indirect cost cap. On May 23, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Restoring Gold Standard Science." ](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/05/restoring-gold-standard-science/)The order directs agencies to implement standards ensuring transparency, reproducibility, and objectivity in scientific research; make scientific findings used in policymaking publicly available; subject research to independent peer review; and appoint Chief Science Officers to oversee compliance. The order could have an impact on federal requests for proposals (RFPs). On May 28, 16 state attorneys general, including Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown, filed a [lawsuit](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/News%20Documents/1.pdf) against the NSF seeking an injunction against new NSF policies impacting research funding. On August 7, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/improving-oversight-of-federal-grantmaking/) The order establishes new oversight measures in order to better align federal discretionary grants with agency priorities and the “national interest.” It introduces structural changes affecting how grants are proposed, reviewed, approved and administered. On March 2, 2026, the General Services Administration (GSA) [issued](http://go.aplu.org/NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGgEYTQBwCXKwGy2RB2CsLPZjy874In5uCWGCq7RuZ7A1uj-5XlRI5L5Ud8b5GBxxSFXQjfiIU=) a notice and request for comment on proposed changes to the pre-award registration requirements for applicants and recipients of Federal financial assistance using the System for Award Management (SAM). The proposed amendment would update certification requirements to align with the Department of Justice’s July 2026 [“Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination”](http://go.aplu.org/NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGgEYTQBpQcfJ40E2pkFqh2ItXAhNxkyGqUoNdVCmm85yqc7GeGOZjFAoXWLUIg4KZgvMAa2Yg=) and January 2025 executive order [“Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.”](http://go.aplu.org/NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGgEYTQB9zYnIpIwmDGZEhcgovHlxVjp_0Msj_JO0PtrrcDwV3QVCkNttk9oE1hC-GSdfG8jM8=) The new requirements would be applicable to “all entities receiving grants, cooperative agreements, and financial assistance such as loans, insurance, and direct appropriations.” ### Education **Important Links:** - April 6, 2026: [ED Draft Regulation: Accreditation, Innovation, and Modernization](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/2026-aim-neg-reg-summary-and-discussion-of-initial-draft-regulations-113620.pdf) (AIM) Negotiated Rulemaking - January 29, 2026: [ED Press Release: U.S. Department of Education Issues Proposed Rule to Make Higher Education More Affordable and Simplify Student Loan Repayment](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-issues-proposed-rule-make-higher-education-more-affordable-and-simplify-student-loan-repayment) - August 19, 2025: [ED Guidance: U.S. Department of Education Prohibits Federal Funds from Supporting Political Activism on College Campuses](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/dear-colleague-letter-updated-requirements-distribution-of-voter-registration-forms-and-federal-work-study-allowable-uses-of-funds-august-19-2025-110519.pdf) - August 7, 2025: [Executive Order: Ensuring Transparency in Higher Education Admissions](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/ensuring-transparency-in-higher-education-admissions/) - March 20, 2025: [Executive Order: Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/improving-education-outcomes-by-empowering-parents-states-and-communities/) --- **Additional Information:** On March 20, 2025, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/improving-education-outcomes-by-empowering-parents-states-and-communities/) The order calls for the dismantling of the Department of Education. The order directs the Secretary of Education to take "all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education and return education authority to the States, while continuing to ensure the effective and uninterrupted delivery of services, programs, and benefits on which Americans rely." Additionally, the order directs that "programs or activities receiving any remaining Department of Education funds will not advance DEI or gender ideology." Closure of a Cabinet-level agency would require the approval of Congress. On August 7, the President issued a memorandum titled ["Ensuring Transparency in Higher Education Admissions"](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/ensuring-transparency-in-higher-education-admissions/). The order directs the Secretary of Education to expand the admissions data that institutions of higher education are required to submit, conduct more robust checks of admissions data and, if necessary, pursue enforcement actions. The order aims to eliminate the use of race as a factor of consideration in admissions. On August 19, the Department of Education issued [new guidance](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/dear-colleague-letter-updated-requirements-distribution-of-voter-registration-forms-and-federal-work-study-allowable-uses-of-funds-august-19-2025-110519.pdf) prohibiting Federal Work Study (FWS) funds from being used to employ students whose work “involves any partisan or nonpartisan political activity," including voter registration, voter assistance or polling place staffing. On January 29, 2026, the Department of Education issued a [Notice of Proposed Rulemaking](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-issues-proposed-rule-make-higher-education-more-affordable-and-simplify-student-loan-repayment) that changes the definitions of graduate and professional degrees, which are now subject to different loan limits under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. On April 6, the Department of Education released [draft regulations](https://cl.exct.net/?qs=eyJkZWtJZCI6Ijg0N2MxNDA4LTA3ODMtNDIyNS04NGUzLTQ5ZTliNmUwNzBiMCIsImRla1ZlcnNpb24iOjEsIml2IjoiQ241a1F0MW9LQ0lySERhR3Q5TlozUT09IiwiY2lwaGVyVGV4dCI6IjVRME9mWE5EMEhBYXF6SEZxa2dzOFYxRVpEYkdFVUpibkE0YmNlMldEMTBWRUZ3SUNrb0g2QXUvMXlzUmJYOWFNcm1WU1JxdkM4N3hEL1hhMUR2Nno1TEdFdzErQ241a1F0MW9LQ0lySERhR3Q5TlozUT09IiwiYXV0aFRhZyI6InJ3dk84US8xMnRRNytzK1N4aE1OZmc9PSJ9) making sweeping changes to the college accreditation system. Among other things, the draft regulations seek to make it easier for new accrediting agencies to gain recognition from the department and to hold “institutions accountable for discrimination and other unlawful acts.” ### Diversity **Important Links:** - April 24, 2026: [Federal Court Ruling: Judge Issues Opinion Granting Preliminary Injunction for Intervenor-Plaintiffs in ACTS Survey Case](https://www.aau.edu/key-issues/us-district-court-judge-issues-opinion-granting-preliminary-injunction-intervenor) - August 14, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: Opinion on Department of Education's Feb. 14 "Dear Colleague Letter"](https://democracyforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/DCL-MSJ-opinipn.pdf) - August 7, 2025: [Presidential Action: Ensuring Transparency in Higher Education Admissions](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/ensuring-transparency-in-higher-education-admissions/) - July 29, 2025: [DOJ Memo: Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination](https://chrome-extension//efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.justice.gov/ag/media/1409486/dl?inline=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery) - April 24, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher Issues Opinion Preventing Dear Colleague Letter from Taking Effect](https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69672728/60/american-federation-of-teachers-v-us-department-of-education/) - April 23, 2025: [Executive Order: Reforming Accreditation to Strengthen Higher Education](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/reforming-accreditation-to-strengthen-higher-education/) - April 4, 2025: [Supreme Court Ruling: U.S. Supreme Court Overturns Lower Court Decision and Permits Termination of Teacher Training Grants](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25879966-24a910-order/) - March 5, 2025: [Multistate Guidance for Schools on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Initiatives](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/News%20Documents/030525_Updated_Joint_Guidance_School_Programs_Multistate.pdf) - March 1, 2025: [ED Memo: U.S. Department of Education Releases Frequently Asked Questions on Dear Colleague Letter About Racial Preferencing](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-releases-frequently-asked-questions-dear-colleague-letter-about-racial-preferencing) - February 21, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson Issues Temporary Restraining Order Preventing Bans on DEI Programs](https://www.littler.com/files/preliminary_injunction_-_nadohe_v._trump.pdf) - February 17, 2025: [ED Memo: U.S. Department of Education Cuts Over $600 Million in Divisive Teacher Training Grants](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-cuts-over-600-million-divisive-teacher-training-grants) - February 14, 2025: [Letter from Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/dear-colleague-letter-sffa-v-harvard-109506.pdf) - February 13, 2025: [Multi-State Guidance Concerning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Employment Initiatives](https://umd.box.com/s/jcevjl0u58077nr7p7amxee63tog4szy) - February 5, 2025: [Executive Order: Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/keeping-men-out-of-womens-sports/) - February 4, 2025: [ED Memo: Department of Education Guidance on Title IX Enforcement](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/title-ix-enforcement-directive-dcl) - January 29, 2025: [Executive Order: Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/additional-measures-to-combat-anti-semitism/) - January 21, 2025: [Executive Order: Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/) - January 20, 2025: [Executive Order: Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-radical-and-wasteful-government-dei-programs-and-preferencing/) --- **Additional Information:** On January 20, the administration issued an executive order titled [“Ending Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing.”](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-radical-and-wasteful-government-dei-programs-and-preferencing/) This order requires federal agencies to terminate “equity-related” grants or contracts and all DEI or DEIA performance requirements for employees, contractors or grantees, and directs agencies to provide a list of contractors who have provided DEI training or training materials to federal employees and all grantees who have received federal funding to “provide or advance DEI, DEIA, or ‘environmental justice’ programs, services or activities since January 20, 2021.” On January 31, a federal judge issued a [Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)](https://umd.app.box.com/s/yq4rnoe59b12lvbblqt5luep66s2icdo) preventing the freeze of federal loans, grants and other financial assistance, including grants with DEIA components. Please reach out to the [Office of Research Administration](https://research.umd.edu/federalupdates#Awards) if you receive a stop-work order on a federal grant for review of DEIA components. On January 21, the administration issued an executive order titled [“Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity.”](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/) The order eliminates all diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the federal government; directs each agency to identify “up to nine potential civil compliance investigations” of organizations including higher education institutions; and instructs the U.S. Attorney General and Secretary of Education to issue guidance to all higher education institutions that receive federal funding on compliance with the Supreme Court ruling banning race-conscious admissions. On January 29, the administration issued an executive order titled [“Additional Measures to Combat Antisemitism.”](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/additional-measures-to-combat-anti-semitism/) The order instructs a number of federal agencies to identify administrative or legal complaints of antisemitism after October 7, 2023 involving higher education institutions; and directs the U.S. Secretary of State, Secretary of Education and Secretary of Homeland Security to provide a report and recommendations to familiarize institutions of higher education with the grounds for inadmissibility into the U.S. so that institutions may “monitor for and report activities” by international students, faculty and staff “relevant to those grounds.” On February 4, the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) within the Department of Education issued [guidance](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/title-ix-enforcement-directive-dcl) to K-12 schools and institutions of higher education advising educators and administrators that OCR will enforce Title IX using the interpretation of “sex” to mean “the objective, immutable characteristic of being born male or female.” On February 5, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/keeping-men-out-of-womens-sports/) This order bans transgender athletes from competing in women’s and girl’s school-sponsored athletics. The order would further prioritize Title IX enforcement actions against educational institutions that allow transgender athletes to compete in women's and girls sports programs and instructs all federal agencies to rescind funding to programs that fail to comply with the policy. On February 13, the Attorneys General of 16 states, including Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, issued [guidance](https://umd.box.com/s/jcevjl0u58077nr7p7amxee63tog4szy) concerning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) employment initiatives. On February 14, the acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights in the Department of Education sent a [letter](https://www.ed.gov/media/document/dear-colleague-letter-sffa-v-harvard-109506.pdf) outlining new guidance for compliance with and enforcement of Title VI. More guidance from the Department of Education is expected. On March 5, the Department of Education released a [Frequently Asked Questions document](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-releases-frequently-asked-questions-dear-colleague-letter-about-racial-preferencing) about the letter. On April 24, two federal judges in [New Hampshire](https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.nhd.65138/gov.uscourts.nhd.65138.74.0.pdf) and [Maryland](https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/69672728/60/american-federation-of-teachers-v-us-department-of-education/) issued orders preventing the letter's guidance from taking effect. On August 14, a federal judge in the District of Columbia [ruled](https://democracyforward.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/DCL-MSJ-opinipn.pdf) that the Department of Education violated the Constitution and the Administration Procedure Act when issuing the letter and vacated it. On February 17, the Department of Education announced the [termination of over $600 million in teacher training grants](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-cuts-over-600-million-divisive-teacher-training-grants). On March 10, a federal judge in Massachusetts issued a [temporary restraining order](https://fingfx.thomsonreuters.com/gfx/legaldocs/klpymzywxpg/03102025teacher_grant.pdf) preventing the termination of the grants. On April 4, the U.S. Supreme Court [overturned the temporary restraining order](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25879966-24a910-order/) to allow termination of the grants to move forward. On February 21, a federal judge in Maryland issued a [temporary restraining order (TRO)](https://www.littler.com/files/preliminary_injunction_-_nadohe_v._trump.pdf) preventing the administration from implementing bans on diversity, equity and inclusion programs operated by federal agencies and federal grant and contract recipients, as ordered in the President's executive orders titled "Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing" and "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-based Opportunity." Under the TRO, the administration may not "pause, freeze, impede, block, cancel, or terminate any awards, contracts or obligations ('Current Obligations'), or change the terms of any Current Obligation," on the basis of these executive orders. The administration also cannot require any grantee or contractor to make any "certification" around DEI in their submissions for funding. On March 5, 15 state attorneys general, including Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, issued [multistate guidance](https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/News%20Documents/030525_Updated_Joint_Guidance_School_Programs_Multistate.pdf) to institutions of higher education and K-12 schools in response to federal orders and agency guidance regarding diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. On April 23, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Reforming Accreditation to Strengthen Higher Education."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/reforming-accreditation-to-strengthen-higher-education/) The order directs the Attorney General and the Secretary of Education to suspend or terminate the accreditation recognition of accrediting bodies that "engage in unlawful discrimination in accreditation-related activity under the guise of 'diversity, equity, and inclusion' initiatives." On July 29, the Department of Justice issued a [memorandum](https://www.justice.gov/ag/media/1409486/dl?inline=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery) containing new guidance for recipients of federal funding. The memo outlines the "significant legal risks of initiatives that involve discrimination based on protected characteristics and provides non-binding best practices to help entities avoid the risk of violations." The guidance specifically references DEI programs, cultural competency and geographic targeting as examples of unlawful discrimination based on protected characteristics. On August 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) [announced major changes to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/ensuring-transparency-in-higher-education-admissions/), requiring four-year institutions to submit detailed, disaggregated data on race and sex in admissions to ensure compliance with the 2023 Supreme Court ban on race-based admissions. On April 24, 2026, a federal judge granted [a preliminary injunction](https://cl.exct.net/?qs=ABB7InYiOjEsImQiOjQ4NjF9AAEAAAAAAC9dREWlulJ-ODmGXXGzBkTlX6qzxniT03nDkrgPl7PkSoneWm1OEH5bw-FS9zd0t7JLnJ8vr5W9QD80Ct5DbZstBLrfffi23qz7) blocking the Department of Education from enforcing this executive order. ### International Students, Faculty and Staff For more information, please visit the [International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) News and Updates page](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/global-learning-all/international-students-scholars/visas-immigration/immigration-news-updates). **Important Links:** - June 12, 2025: [Federal Court Ruling: Judge Stays Order Vacating $100,000 H1B Visa Fee](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-district-court-temporarily-stays-order-vacating-dollar100000-h-1b-fee.html) - June 8, 2026: [Federal Court Ruling: Judge Vacates $100,000 H1B Visa Fee](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-district-court-vacates-dollar100000-h-1b-fee-government-expected-to-quickly-appeal.html) - June 5, 2026: [Federal Court Ruling: Federal District Court Vacates 40-Jurisdiction Adjudications Hold and Related Policies](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-federal-district-court-vacates-40-jurisdiction-adjudications-hold-and-related-policies.html) - March 20, 2026: [Federal Court Ruling: Judge Denies Government Motion to Dismiss Case Regarding Student Visa Revocations](https://aboutblaw.com/bleF) - January 21, 2026: [Department of State Press Release: Immigrant Visa Processing Updates for Nationalities at High Risk of U.S. Public Benefits Reliance](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/immigrant-visa-processing-updates-for-nationalities-at-high-risk-of-public-benefits-usage.html#:~:text=Immigrant%20visa%20applicants%20who%20are%20nationals%20of%20affected%20countries%20may,Tourist%20visas%20are%20nonimmigrant%20visas.) - January 12, 2026: [Department of Homeland Security: Adjustment to Premium Processing Fees](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/01/12/2026-00321/adjustment-to-premium-processing-fees) - January 1, 2026: [USCIS Memorandum: Hold and Review of USCIS Benefit Applications Filed by Aliens from Additional High-Risk Countries](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-alerts/PM-602-0194-PendingApplicationsAdditionalHighRiskCountries-20260101.pdf) - December 29, 2025: [Department of Homeland Security: Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/29/2025-23853/weighted-selection-process-for-registrants-and-petitioners-seeking-to-file-cap-subject-h-1b) - December 16, 2025: [Presidential Proclamation: Restriction and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/restricting-and-limiting-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-security-of-the-united-states/) - December 12, 2025: [Department of Homeland Security Policy Alert: Photograph Reuse for Identity Documents](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-manual-updates/20251212-PhotographReuse.pdf) - December 5, 2025: [Department of State Press Release: Announcement of Expanded Screening and Vetting for H-1B and Dependent H-4 Visa Applicants](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/announcement-of-expanded-screening-and-vetting-for-h-1b-and-dependent-h-4-visa-applicants.html) - December 2, 2025: [Department of Homeland Security Policy Memorandum: Hold and Review of all Pending Asylum Applications and all USCIS Benefit Applications Filed by Aliens from High-Risk Countries](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-alerts/PM-602-0192-PendingApplicationsHighRiskCountries-20251202.pdf) - November 24, 2025: [Department of Homeland Security Press Release: DHS Terminating Temporary Protected Status for Burma](https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/dhs-terminating-temporary-protected-status-for-burma) - October 30, 2025: [Department of Homeland Security Interim Final Rule: DHS Ends Automatic Extension of Certain Employment Authorization](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/10/30/2025-19702/removal-of-the-automatic-extension-of-employment-authorization-documents?mkt_tok=NjAzLVVSVy0xMjcAAAGd1bh9aUevn6SmiKTzCkI3tOPs8TlGlBzhArUtMIiV_2LHOLxpjR1G_3KJWyM-pWJFtxcd62l6SE7xjzffEMS-EP4em5Ww2NWCISRVs4NZ9A) - October 20, 2025: [USCIS Guidance on when the $100K H-1B Proclamation Will and Will Not Apply](https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/h-1b-specialty-occupations) - September 19, 2025: [USCIS Notice: Termination of the Designation of Syria for Temporary Protected Status](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/22/2025-18322/termination-of-the-designation-of-syria-for-temporary-protected-status) - September 19, 2025: [Presidential Proclamation: Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/09/restriction-on-entry-of-certain-nonimmigrant-workers/) - September 6, 2025: [Department of State Press Release: Adjudicating Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) Applicants in Their Country of Residence](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/adjudicating-niv-applicants-in-their-country-of-residence.html) - August 28, 2025: [DHS Proposal: Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media ](https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-16554.pdf) - June 23, 2025: [U.S. Customs and Border Protection Information: Border Search of Electronic Devices at Ports of Entry](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/cbp-search-authority/border-search-electronic-devices) - June 20, 2025: [State Department Announcement: Announcement of Expanded Screening and Vetting for Visa Applicants](https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/06/announcement-of-expanded-screening-and-vetting-for-visa-applicants/) - June 4, 2025: [Presidential Proclamation: Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/06/restricting-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-other-national-security-and-public-safety-threats/) - June 4, 2025: [Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Restricts the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats](https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/06/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-restricts-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-other-national-security-and-public-safety-threats/) - May 28, 2025: [Department of State Press Statement: New Visa Policies Put America First, Not China](https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/05/new-visa-policies-put-america-first-not-china/) - April 10, 2025: [Amicus Brief ](https://www.presidentsalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/PA-brief.pdf)filed by 86 institutions and associations, including the University System of Maryland, supporting a preliminary injunction to stop the revocation of student visas without cause and arresting, detaining and deporting noncitizen students and faculty. - March 19, 2025: [Letter from Chairman Moolenaar Demanding Transparency from Universities on National Security Risks Posed by Chinese Nationals in STEM Programs](https://selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-moolenaar-demands-transparency-universities-national-security-risks) - January 20, 2025: [Executive Order: Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-othernational-security-and-public-safety-threats/) - January 20, 2025: [Executive Order: Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-meaning-and-value-of-american-citizenship/) - January 20, 2025: [Executive Order: America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/america-first-policy-directive-to-the-secretary-of-state/) --- **Additional Information:** On January 20, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-othernational-security-and-public-safety-threats/) This order directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with other federal agencies, to enhance vetting for all visa applicants including F-1 and J-1 students, and directs the departments of State and Homeland Security to ensure that applicants “do not bear hostile attitudes” toward U.S. institutions. These provisions could impact visa processing. The order also directs certain federal agencies to identify, within 60 days, "countries throughout the world for which vetting and screening information is so deficient as to warrant a partial or full suspension on the admission of nationals from those countries." Starting on March 21, these agencies may issue new travel restrictions and entry requirements may change unexpectedly. On January 20, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship.”](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-meaning-and-value-of-american-citizenship/) The order ends birthright citizenship—which grants citizenship to all people born in the U.S.—and extends to individuals born to mothers lawfully but temporarily in the U.S. where the father was not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This order has been temporarily blocked by several federal judges. On January 20, the administration issued an executive order titled [“America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State.”](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/america-first-policy-directive-to-the-secretary-of-state/) The order directs the Department of State to align all policies and programs with an “America First” approach, which could have implications for international exchange and study abroad programs funded by the Department of State. On March 19, the university received a [letter](https://selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-moolenaar-demands-transparency-universities-national-security-risks) from the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party requesting information on our policies and practices regarding the enrollment of Chinese national students in advanced STEM programs and federally funded research. The committee sent the letter to five other universities, including Carnegie Mellon, Purdue University, Stanford University, the University of Illinois, and the University of Southern California. It is our understanding that the request for information is not seeking personally identifiable information. The university therefore intends to respond accordingly, and otherwise consistent with federal and state privacy laws, by the deadline of April 25. On April 10, the University System of Maryland joined 85 other institutions and associations in signing an [amicus brief](https://www.presidentsalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/PA-brief.pdf) to support a lawsuit against the federal government over its revocation of student visas. On May 28, the U.S. Department of State issued a [press statement](https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/05/new-visa-policies-put-america-first-not-china/) stating that they "will work with the Department of Homeland Security to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields." If you are a student and have been notified of a visa revocation, please immediately contact the [Office of International Students and Scholars (ISSS)](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/global-learning-all/international-students-scholars). On June 4, the President signed a [proclamation](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/06/restricting-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-other-national-security-and-public-safety-threats/) that "fully restricts and limits the entry of nationals" from 12 countries: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The order further "partially restrict\[s\] and limit\[s\] the entry of nationals" from an additional 7 countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. The proclamation includes exceptions for ["lawful permanent residents, existing visa holders, certain visa categories, and individuals whose entry serves U.S. national interests."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/06/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-restricts-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-other-national-security-and-public-safety-threats/) On June 20, the U.S. Department of State issued an [announcement](https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/06/announcement-of-expanded-screening-and-vetting-for-visa-applicants/) outlining new guidelines for the vetting of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications. The announcement states that "all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas will be instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to 'public.'” On June 23, U.S. Customs and Border Protection released [updated guidelines](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/cbp-search-authority/border-search-electronic-devices) regarding the search of electronic devices at ports of entry, stating that all travelers crossing the United States Border are subject to CBP inspection, including on occasion the search of "a traveler’s mobile phone, computer, camera, or other electronic devices during the inspection process." The guidelines further state that "border searches of electronic devices are often integral to determining an individual’s intentions upon entry to the United States and thus provide additional information relevant to admissibility of foreign nationals under U.S. immigration laws." On August 28, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) proposed [regulations](https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-16554.pdf) that would limit F-1 and J-1 visa holders to a maximum stay of four years before they must apply to extend their legal status. On September 6, the Department of State [is requiring all nonimmigrant visa applicants to schedule visa interviews in their country of residence or nationality](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/adjudicating-niv-applicants-in-their-country-of-residence.html). This is a significant change to visa processing and has implications for visa applicants currently outside the U.S. On September 19, the President signed a [proclamation](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/09/restriction-on-entry-of-certain-nonimmigrant-workers/) requiring an additional $100,000 payment as a condition of eligibility for new H-1B visa petitions, beginning with those filed after 12:01 AM on September 21, 2025. Guidance on when this proclamation will or will not apply can be found on the [USCIS website](https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/h-1b-specialty-occupations). On October 16, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce [filed a lawsuit](https://www.uschamber.com/assets/documents/25-10-16-Chamber-of-Commerce-H1B-Complaint.pdf) in federal court challenging the proclamation. Also on September 19, USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security [announced](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/22/2025-18322/termination-of-the-designation-of-syria-for-temporary-protected-status) that they are terminating the designation of Syria for Temporary Protected Status, effective September 30. On March 20, 2026, a federal judge [denied the government's motion to dismiss a case brought against DHS and the Department of State by a higher education group](https://aboutblaw.com/bleF), and relating to the revocation of student visas. On June 5, issued a ruling that has positively impacted applicants from the 40 jurisdictions impacted by [the current travel ban](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/global-learning-all/international-students-scholars/visas-immigration/immigration-news-updates/travel-ban-reference). On June 8, a district court ruling [vacated the $100,000.00 H1B proclamation fee policy](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-district-court-vacates-dollar100000-h-1b-fee-government-expected-to-quickly-appeal.html) in its entirety. On June 12, the court [temporarily paused its June 8 order](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-district-court-temporarily-stays-order-vacating-dollar100000-h-1b-fee.html) vacating the $100,000 H-1B proclamation fee policy; the pause will remain in place until an appeals court can rule on the government’s anticipated request for a stay of the June 8 vacate decision. ### Undocumented Individuals **Important Links:** - April 28, 2025: [Executive Order: Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/protecting-american-communities-from-criminal-aliens/) - January 21, 2025: [DHS Statement: Statement from a DHS Spokesperson on Directives Expanding Law Enforcement and Ending the Abuse of Humanitarian Parole](https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/01/21/statement-dhs-spokesperson-directives-expanding-law-enforcement-and-ending-abuse) - January 20, 2025: [Executive Order: Protecting the American People Against Invasion](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-american-people-against-invasion/) --- **Additional Information:** On January 20, the administration issued an executive order titled [“Protecting the American People Against Invasion.”](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-american-people-against-invasion/) This order requires the U.S. Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to review contracts, grants and agreements between the federal government and “non-governmental organizations supporting or providing services, either directly or indirectly, to removable or illegal aliens.” Separately, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a [directive](https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/01/21/statement-dhs-spokesperson-directives-expanding-law-enforcement-and-ending-abuse) rescinding a long-standing policy that identified schools, hospitals and churches as “sensitive locations” and limited them from immigration enforcement actions. As a result, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will no longer treat these “sensitive locations,” including college campuses, differently from other locations. On April 28, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/protecting-american-communities-from-criminal-aliens/) The order directs the Attorney General to publish a list of state and local jurisdictions with "sanctuary" policies. The order further orders the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to "stop the enforcement of State and local laws, regulations, policies, and practices favoring aliens over any groups of American citizens that are unlawful, preempted by Federal law, or otherwise unenforceable, including State laws that provide in-State higher education tuition to aliens but not to out-of-State American citizens." ### Athletics **Important Links:** - April 3, 2026: [Executive Order: Urgent National Action to Save College Sports](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/04/urgent-national-action-to-save-college-sports/?source=email) - July 24, 2025: [Executive Order: Saving College Sports](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/07/saving-college-sports/) - February 5, 2025: [Executive Order: Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/keeping-men-out-of-womens-sports/) **Summary:** On February 5, the administration issued an executive order titled ["Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/keeping-men-out-of-womens-sports/) This order bans transgender athletes from competing in women’s and girl’s school-sponsored athletics. The order would further prioritize Title IX enforcement actions against educational institutions that allow transgender athletes to compete in women's and girls sports programs and instructs all federal agencies to rescind funding to programs that fail to comply with the policy. On July 24, the administration issued an executive order titled, ["Saving College Sports."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/07/saving-college-sports/) The order contains: prohibitions on third parties engaging in direct "pay-for-play" payments to athletes and guidance that players should only earn "fair market value" for services to third parties; requirements that schools maintain or increase scholarships for nonrevenue sports; guidance on the employment status of college athletes; and protections for the NCAA against litigation. On April 3, 2026, the administration issued an executive order titled, ["Urgent National Action to Save College Sports."](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/04/urgent-national-action-to-save-college-sports/?source=email) The order encourages national athletics governing bodies to update rules concerning student-athlete eligibility, transfers, medical leave, revenue-sharing, and national agent registry rules by August 1, 2026. The order also directs federal contracting and grantmaking agencies to treat violations of national governing-body rules on athletics as potential grounds for withholding or canceling federal funding. ## Resources ### Campus Resources - [New University Research Resilience Initiatives Announcement ](https://today.umd.edu/8-75m-investment-supports-research-resilience-amid-challenging-federal-funding-environment) --- - [Updated Guidance for Managing Government Enforcement Agent Requests](https://govrelations.umd.edu/guidance-on-government-enforcement-officials-including-ice-actions-and-limits-to-non-public-spaces-and-information) - [Office of the General Counsel](https://ogc.umd.edu/): (301) 405-4945 - [UMPD](https://www.umpd.umd.edu/): (301) 405-3555 --- - [Division of Research Updates on Federal Funding](https://research.umd.edu/federalupdates) - [Message from Vice President for Research Gregory F. Ball on Feb. 7 NIH Notice (February 10)](https://view.email.umd.edu/?qs=662936eec3454906e1f2b550a6c31e4344ed63d91886c61814ebcfdbc047f1313834cbfc3391f690ad5a235204cb52fafe5e31e48a9f978010bb4aa3d8a693fb07121e036e924028) - [Message from Vice President for Research Gregory F. Ball on Jan. 27 OMB Memo (January 28)](https://view.email.umd.edu/?qs=c2c79413e496b767f26034e4f53b89024e2598b3b1b24a7f63106c574a5940a216244772ca43f89310b562c41a8e6e43242063f220303f7bd7e7136082790739ed8701f3a14c84480863b04c5e7f8faf) --- - [International Students & Scholars (ISSS)](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/global-learning-all/international-students-scholars) Updates - Summer Travel Resources: - [Summer Travel Reminders/Emergency Card](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/sites/default/files/2025-04/ISSS%20Travel%20FAQ.pdf) - [Travel FAQs](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/global-learning-all/international-students-scholars/visas-immigration/visa-application-and-travel-information/travel-faqs) - [Immigration News, Updates and FAQs](https://marylandglobal.umd.edu/global-learning-all/international-students-scholars/visas-immigration/immigration-news-and-updates) - Fragomen: [Navigating Immigration Policy: What Businesses and Individuals Need to Know](https://www.fragomen.com/trending/navigating-immigration-under-second-trump-administration.html) - Contact: (301) 314-7740 or [isss\_inquiry@umd.edu](mailto:isss_inquiry@umd.edu) - [Message from ISSS Director Susan-Ellis Dougherty: Support and Office Hours for Our International Community (April 8)](https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Support-and-office-hours-for-our-international-community-.html?soid=1113840988973&aid=iIDfzLL8hno) - [Message from ISSS Director Susan-Ellis Dougherty: Visa Pause; Visa Revocations (May 30)](https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Visa-Pause--Visa-Revocations.html?soid=1113840988973&aid=0AVlIgSd9IM) - [Message from ISSS Director Susan-Ellis Dougherty: June 4 Presidential Proclamation on Travel Bans (June 5)](https://myemail.constantcontact.com/-June-4th-Presidential-Proclamation-on-Travel-Bans.html?soid=1113840988973&aid=uc761vvRemk) --- - [New Federal Law Impacting Financial Aid Programs](https://financialaid.umd.edu/) ### APLU - [APLU Analysis of Final One Big Beautiful Bill Act](https://www.aplu.org/wp-content/uploads/APLU-Comparison-of-House-Senate-Reconciliation-Text-1.pdf) - March 20, 2025: [APLU Statement on the Executive Order to Dismantle the Department of Education](https://govrelations.umd.edu/admin/entries/pages/APLU%20Statement%20on%20Executive%20Order%20to%20Dismantle%20the%20U.S.%20Department%20of%20Education) - February 7, 2025: [APLU Statement on Cuts to Reimbursement of NIH Facilities & Administrative Costs](https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/news/aplu-statement-on-cuts-to-reimbursement-of-nih-facilities-administrative-costs/) - January 30, 2025: [Overview of Recent Presidential Executive Orders](https://aplu-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/APLU-Overview-of-Trump-EOs.pdf) - January 28, 2025: [APLU Statement on Pause on Federal Grants](https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/news/aplu-statement-on-pause-on-federal-grants/) ### AAU - October 24, 2025: [Statement of AAU President Barbara R. Snyder on the Association’s Legal Filing Challenging the $100,000 H-1B Visa Petition Fee](https://www.aau.edu/newsroom/press-releases/statement-aau-president-legal-filing-challenging-h-1b-fee) - February 7, 2025: [Statement of AAU President Barbara R. Snyder on Cuts to NIH Facilities and Administrative (F&A) Research Costs](https://www.aau.edu/newsroom/press-releases/statement-aau-president-barbara-r-snyder-cuts-nih-facilities-administrative-costs) - January 29, 2025: [Statement of AAU President Barbara Snyder on Rescinding of January 27 OMB Memo](https://www.aau.edu/newsroom/press-releases/statement-aau-president-barbara-snyder-rescinding-january-27-omb-memo) - January 28, 2025: [Statement of AAU President Barbara Snyder on January 27 OMB Memo Pausing American Scientific Advancement](https://www.aau.edu/newsroom/press-releases/statement-aau-president-barbara-snyder-january-27-omb-memo-pausing-american) ### ACE - July 3, 2025: [Reconciliation Bill Narrowly Passes Congress](https://www.acenet.edu/News-Room/Pages/Reconciliation-Bill-Narrowly-Passes-Congress.aspx) - January 28, 2025: [Statement by ACE President Ted Mitchell on Federal Assistance Pause](https://www.acenet.edu/News-Room/Pages/Statement-Federal-Assistance-Pause.aspx) - January 27, 2025: [Trump’s Executive Orders Shift Higher Education Landscape](https://www.acenet.edu/News-Room/Pages/Trump-EOs-Shift-Higher-Education-Landscape.aspx) ### COGR - [Compiled List of Administration EOs and Federal Agency Directives that Impact Research Universities](https://www.cogr.edu/2025-administration-transition-information-resources) ### Maryland State - [Maryland Public Servants Resource Website](https://response.maryland.gov/federalpublicservants/) - [Maryland Attorney General's Office: Guidance to Colleges and Universities Regarding Immigration Enforcement](https://wwwcp.umes.edu/generalcounsel/wp-content/uploads/sites/28/2025/04/Higher-Ed-Immigration-Enforcement-Advice-2.7.25.pdf#:~:text=Colleges%20and,place%20on%20college%20and%20university) - [Maryland Attorney General's Office: Know Your Rights Booklet](https://oag.maryland.gov/i-need-to/Documents/pdfs/Know_Your_Rights_Booklet.pdf) - [Maryland Attorney General's Office: Resources for the Maryland Immigrant Community](https://oag.maryland.gov/FederalActionsResponse/Pages/resources-for-the-maryland-immigrant-community.aspx) - [Maryland Attorney General's Office: Guidance for Maryland Law Enforcement on the Requirements of Maryland Law When Working with Federal Law Enforcement Agencies](https://oag.maryland.gov/FederalActionsResponse/Documents/pdfs/2026%20Update,%20Guidance%20on%20Working%20with%20Federal%20Agents%20-%20FINAL.pdf) (Updated 2026) ### Other - [Grant Watch:](https://grant-watch.us/) An online tool developed by researchers at MIT, Harvard and other universities to track terminated NIH and NSF grants. ## About Executive Orders The slideshow below was created by the [**National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO)**](https://www.nacubo.org/) and outlines the process of issuing (the President) and responding to (Congress and Judiciary) executive orders. - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO EO Graphic Slide 1** - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO EO Graphic Slide 2** - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO EO Graphic Slide 3** - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO EO Graphic Slide 4** - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO EO Graphic Slide 5** - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO EO Graphic Slide 6** - **Carousel Slide: NACUBO Branding infographic Executive Orders 101 12725 vfinal Page 7**