🚨 We Need Your Feedback on the OMB Directive Which Paused Federal Research Funding 🚨
On January 27, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a directive pausing federal funding, creating uncertainty for research institutions and the future of critical biomedical studies. This pause, which was rescinded a few days later on January 29, could have serious implications for NEI-funded vision research and other NIH-supported programs. We want to hear from you!
Please share how this directive may have impacted your research, institution, or funding outlook. Your input will help the Alliances advocate for solutions and ensure that policymakers understand the real-world consequences of this decision.
Our alliance with NEI is deeply rooted in our shared commitment to advancing vision research.
We work tirelessly to advocate for increased federal funding, ensuring that NEI has the resources needed for groundbreaking treatments.
From championing the importance of basic science to amplifying the impact of translational research, we connect the dots between policymakers, researchers, and the public.
Through educational initiatives, such as Congressional Briefings and advocacy days, we bring NEI-supported research to Capitol Hill.
By advocating for robust and sustained funding, we empower NEI to transform lives, ensuring a brighter future for all Americans.
We help underscore how federal investment in vision science yields profound returns—not only in terms of health but also economic and societal benefits.
While we deeply appreciate Congress’s commitment to sustaining funding for vision research, level funding amidst rising costs equates to a reduction in resources, limiting the potential for critical advancements. We support the urgent need for increased investment in the mission to protect and restore vision, ensuring that cutting-edge research continues to improve quality of life for millions of Americans.
Despite the budget for the National Eye Institute increasing by 27.6% over the last decade (from $702 million in 2012 to $896.5 million in 2024), the 32.8% biomedical inflation over the same period means the net change after adjusting for inflation is actually -5.2%.Despite the funding increases provided by Congress over the last decade, we have failed to keep pace with inflation. As a result, the National Eye Institute’s purchasing power to invest in vision research in 2024 is lower than it was in 2012, as highlighted in the chart below.
Even with the anticipated growth of major eye diseases and an aging population, it’s crucial to prioritize investment in vision research. Vision researchers are at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in gene therapies, imaging technologies, artificial intelligence, big data, and regenerative medicine. It’s essential to support these researchers in their quest to preserve sight and restore vision.
Strengthening Advocacy and Partnerships for Vision Research
We’ve intensified its advocacy efforts to protect and strengthen federal support for vision research, ensuring that the NEI remains a dedicated institute within the NIH. Through coalition building, congressional engagement, and strategic partnerships, we continue to champion policies that advance vision science and safeguard the future of federally funded research.
