Biden-Appointed Judge Extends Restraining Order on NIH Funding Cuts
Background:
In early September 2020, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced plans to implement severe cuts to biomedical research grants awarded to universities and research institutions nationwide. The cuts aimed to reduce the amount of "overhead" costs associated with the grants. However, universities and research groups argued that these costs were critical for supporting essential research operations.
Initial Restraining Order:
Massachusetts’ U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley issued a temporary restraining order on September 11, 2020, blocking the NIH from implementing the cuts. The order was issued in response to separate lawsuits filed by 22 states and organizations representing universities, hospitals, and research institutions.
Friday’s Extension:
On Friday, September 18, 2020, Judge Kelley extended the temporary restraining order for an additional 14 days. This extension was granted after the plaintiffs demonstrated that they were likely to succeed on the merits of their claims and that irreparable harm would result from the implementation of the cuts.
Legal Arguments:
The plaintiffs argued that the cuts were illegal, pointing to bipartisan congressional action during President Trump’s first term that explicitly prohibited such cuts. They contended that the NIH was in "open defiance" of the will of Congress.
The Trump administration countered by claiming that the NIH had authority to alter the terms of the grants after they had been awarded. They also argued that Judge Kelley’s court was not the proper venue to adjudicate claims of breach of contract.
Consequences of the Cuts:
The plaintiffs maintained that the cuts would have devastating consequences for biomedical research in the United States. They warned that research projects would be terminated or severely scaled back, potentially leading to delays in medical breakthroughs and the loss of valuable research data.
NIH Calculations:
The NIH estimated that the cuts would save the agency approximately $4 billion per year. However, universities and research groups disputed this figure, arguing that the cuts would ultimately have a negative impact on the quality and quantity of biomedical research.
Reactions:
University leaders and researchers expressed relief and gratitude for the extension of the restraining order. They emphasized the importance of preserving funding for essential research operations.
Elon Musk, who leads the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency, applauded the cuts, characterizing them as a way to reduce "overhead" spending by universities.
Conclusion:
The extended restraining order has prevented the NIH from implementing the planned funding cuts, at least temporarily. The legal battle between the plaintiffs and the Trump administration is likely to continue, with the outcome of the lawsuits having significant implications for the future of biomedical research in the United States.
