Public Comment Period Open Through July 13 

Over the last few weeks, a growing conversation has been taking shape around a major policy proposal from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This proposed rule could fundamentally reshape how federally funded research is awarded, conducted, and shared across the United States, and could affect everything from grant processes to public access to scientific findings. 

As an organization dedicated to advancing ultrasound through research, education, and best practices, with patient safety at the center, the AIUM is monitoring this proposal and engaging with peer organizations during the public comment period. This is a set amount of time during which the public can review and provide feedback on a proposed government rule, regulation, or policy before it is finalized. This policy proposal comment period is open through July 13 at 11:59 pm ET. 

Individuals may choose to submit a comment and share their perspective about the proposal. Tens-of-thousands of comments have already been submitted from across the research, education, health care, and nonprofit communities. Input from clinicians, researchers, educators, and medical professionals can help provide real-world context on how proposed changes may affect patient care, research, education, and scientific collaboration.  

As a nonpartisan, nonprofit association, the AIUM does not take political positions. At the same time, this proposal has significant implications for the medical and scientific community, including AIUM members. AIUM’s Executive Committee of the Board believes it is important that members are aware of the opportunity to engage in the public comment process. 

What Are the Proposed Changes?  

For a summary of key changes in the proposal, read more here. Here are a few of the main takeaways: 

• Increased political oversight of grants: Political appointees would review and approve all discretionary awards, and funding decisions must align with administration priorities, potentially overriding scientific merit. 
• Peer review no longer central: Expert peer review becomes advisory only, weakening a long-standing foundation of U.S. research funding. 
• New, unclear standards: Grants must meet an undefined “Gold Standard Science” requirement, creating uncertainty and broad discretion in approvals. 
• Risk to ongoing research: Active grants could be terminated mid-project without cause if priorities change. 
• Restrictions on research topics: Institutions could face risk even for separately funded activities. 
• Limits on international collaboration: New restrictions make global research partnerships more difficult and require additional approvals. 
• Expanded eligibility scrutiny: Applicants may be denied based on affiliations or perceived viewpoints. 
• Increased administrative burden: New compliance requirements, including mandatory E-Verify for grant personnel. 

What are the Direct Impacts on AIUM Members?  

While this proposal will impact the medical space writ-large, here are ways that this will directly impact the AIUM, the organization’s members, and the AIUM’s nonprofit services. 

• Research & Funding: Greater uncertainty in funding decisions and project continuity and shift from merit-based evaluation to policy-driven considerations. 
• Conferences & Education: Conference attendance would require advance agency approval written into grants and reduced flexibility to present findings, collaborate, and stay current. 
• Journals & Publishing: Publication costs (including open access fees) would be generally unallowable and journal subscriptions may not be covered by grant funds, which would create potential barriers to sharing and advancing ultrasound research. 
• Professional Engagement: Society memberships require prior approval and justification, and there may be potential limits on participation in organizations like the AIUM.  
• Scientific Communication: New restrictions on public communication and outreach, and “issue advocacy” rules may limit how findings are shared. 

Why Do These Proposed Changes Matter? 

These proposed changes represent a significant shift in how scientific research is funded and managed in the U.S., moving away from independent, peer-reviewed processes toward increased centralized oversight. For the ultrasound community, this could directly affect innovation and research progress, educational opportunities and collaboration, publication and dissemination of new knowledge and ultimately, quality of care and patient safety. 

How Can I Take Action and Make a Public Comment? 

The public comment period is open through July 13. AIUM members, and everyone interested in this topic, have an opportunity to help shape the outcome. Below are some tips on how to create an effective public comment.  

• Begin with your background and expertise. Briefly describe your experience with federal grants, including the types of grants you’ve worked with or administered. 
• Reference specific section numbers. For each point you make, include the relevant section of the proposed rule (e.g., [200.205]). You do not need to comment on every part of the rule.  
• Provide concrete details and impacts. Go beyond simply stating support or opposition. Share specific facts, data, or examples that explain how the proposed changes would affect you, your work, or your broader community.  
• Highlight your unique perspective. Individual, well-supported comments are more impactful than generic or template responses. Emphasize your personal experience and insights to help decision-makers understand the real-world implications. 
• Maintain a professional and respectful tone. Keep your comments clear, constructive, and fact-based. Professional communication helps ensure your feedback is taken seriously and effectively considered. 

For this proposal, the public comment period is open through July 13 at 11:59 pm ET. You may submit a comment here. 

The AIUM’s Commitment 

As this proposal continues to develop, the AIUM remains committed to engaging with peer organizations and advocating for policies that support innovation, transparency, and patient safety. The AIUM will provide timely updates and insights, helping you stay informed and prepared for any changes that may impact your work and the broader research landscape. 

The AIUM Executive Committee, the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), Laurel, MD.