Comment from David Hessl
David HesslOpposeAcademic
Summary: An NIH-funded researcher at UC Davis opposes the proposed regulations, arguing that funding decisions should be made by qualified scientists rather than political appointees. The commenter expresses concern that the rules will lead to biased investments and harm scientific progress due to a lack of diverse representation in the decision-making process.
I am an NIH funded researcher at UC Davis working on treatment of neuro developmental and neurodegenerative disorders such as autism, Down syndrome, and movement disorders. I am writing to oppose sections 200.205, 200.340, and 200.202. Decisions about funding for scientific work MUST be made by people who are qualified, and this means other scientists, not political appointees. Also, the White House priorities are aligned with the values and beliefs generally of one political party and there is very poor representation of all citizens. Congress is made up of representatives of all citizens and MUST make the decisions about funding priorities. These rules will harm scientific progress and lead to biased and poor investments in the health of Amrricans