Which states get the most federal health and science funding
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Some states have far more to lose than others if the second Trump administration cuts federal health and science funding.
Why it matters: President Trump's executive orders effectively freezing some public health and science work has scientists, researchers and others worried about the administration's commitment to the fields, and about the politicization of science — especially given the looming threat of a bird flu outbreak.
Driving the news: National Science Foundation (NSF) grant reviews and National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding for new projects are at least temporarily paused as both agencies seek clarity on Trump's recent moves.
- Some review time is normal during presidential transitions, and it's possible that both agencies' work will eventually continue more or less as normal.
- But it's also possible that some projects will be rejected that might have been funded during previous administrations, especially given Trump's criticisms of DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) efforts, green energy and more.
The latest: The Trump administration on Monday issued another, far more sweeping directive pausing a wide variety of federal grant, loan and assistance programs pending review.
- Yes, but: A federal judge on Tuesday temporary halted that effort through next Monday amid a legal challenge.
By the numbers: In fiscal year 2024, the NSF and NIH allocated the most funding per 1,000 residents to universities, research institutions, and other health and science organizations in Massachusetts (about $573,000); Washington, D.C. ($563,000) and Maryland ($465,000).
- In raw dollar terms, California ($6.2 billion), New York ($4.1 billion) and Massachusetts ($4 billion) received the most combined NSF and NIH funding in fiscal 2024.
- Those two agencies support a wide variety of scientific and health research, education and more.
- The NIH, for example, played a major role in developing COVID-19 vaccines.
What's next: For the country's science and health communities, the next few days and weeks will be rife with uncertainty as the long-term implications of Trump's moves come into focus.
