Comment on FR Doc # 2026-12725 from Elena Abramova
AnonymousOpposeIndividual
Summary: The commenter opposes the proposed OMB regulatory requirements, arguing that they will hinder scientific progress, increase administrative costs, and undermine the United States' position as a global leader in innovation. They express concern that political oversight will interfere with expert peer review and that the regulations may deter talented scientists from pursuing careers in the U.S.
Dear the staff of the National Science Foundation! The "OMB regulatory requirements" you are implementing will cause the United States to lose its status as a global leader in scientific discovery and biomedical innovation; instead, we will be purchasing the products of technological progress from other countries.
Scientific research should be evaluated by experts possessing the necessary technical knowledge and competence in the relevant field. Research proposals and manuscripts already undergo rigorous peer review by independent scientists capable of assessing their scientific merit, feasibility, and potential significance. Introducing an additional review stage by political appointees creates the risk that funding decisions will be influenced by factors unrelated to science; this will slow scientific progress and increase administrative costs without improving the quality of the funded research.
The timely dissemination of scientific results through international conferences and peer-reviewed publications is fundamental to scientific progress. By publishing and presenting new discoveries, researchers establish their priority, while competition among scientific teams drives innovation. Modern science is inherently international. Many major scientific breakthroughs have resulted from collaboration among researchers from various organizations and countries. Restricting international scientific cooperation will isolate American scientists, reduce access to additional expertise and knowledge, and ultimately weaken the United States' leading position in science. Countries isolated from the global scientific community often struggle to maintain a leading edge in innovation. The United States has long benefited from openness, collaboration, and the free exchange of scientific knowledge.
The OMB's Regulations" you are introducing will deter talented young scientists from pursuing a scientific career in the U.S. and undermine the country's ability to attract and retain the world's best researchers.
The future of American science is in your hands!