Speaking up for science: Point Blue opposes sweeping proposed changes to federal grantmaking rules
July 10, 2026
The integrity of science relies on independent, objective, peer-review methods. When research must align with political priorities rather than true knowledge gaps determined by previous scientific evidence, there is significant cause for concern that science will erode.
That’s why just yesterday, Point Blue Conservation Science submitted a formal public comment strongly opposing a sweeping proposed rule change from the Federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) that would fundamentally reshape how federal science grants are awarded and managed. The comment period closes Monday, July 13, 2026, and there is still time for your voice to be heard.
See my initial blog post here about this issue for more on what is being proposed.
Why this matters, even if you’re not a scientist
The decisions communities make about how to manage their natural resources and wildlife habitat rely on independent, peer-reviewed science. Identifying which restoration practices work for wildlife and farmers alike, understanding how sea level rise is reshaping coastal ecosystems, and knowing where migratory birds need enhanced habitat – all of this knowledge requires a funding system that follows the evidence and expert peer-review process rather than politics.
Point Blue has spent the last 60+ years generating this type of scientific evidence to inform management decisions, publishing over 1,000 peer-reviewed publications, forming partnerships with public agencies and private landowners, and developing a wide range of conservation programs from Alaska to Antarctica, from the Sierra to the sea.
What you can do
The public comment period closes July 13, 2026. Comments are formally entered into the administrative record and agencies are required to read and respond to substantive comments. A strong record of public opposition matters both to the outcome of this rulemaking and to any future legal challenges.
If this new rule concerns you, please consider taking action. You don’t need to be a policy expert or scientist – a brief, personal statement about why independent science matters to you is valuable.
Submit a public comment: To submit a comment, go to regulations.gov and search for docket OMB-2026-0034-0001. If you are affiliated with an organization and are submitting a letter on their behalf, the National Council of Nonprofits has also prepared a helpful comment guide with background on the rule and tips for submitting effective comments.
Contact your congressional representatives: Your U.S. Senators and Representative can also weigh in on this issue. To urge them to oppose these proposed rule changes, visit congress.gov/members and search your home address to find your representatives’ contact information.
Thank you for using your voice to speak up for science!