Congress Examines Foreign Influence and Research Security in Higher Education
In March, both the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the House Education and Workforce Committee held hearings focused on foreign influence and research security in U.S. higher education. Lawmakers in both chambers examined existing transparency and disclosure requirements, including Section 117 of the Higher Education Act, and considered legislation such as the DETERRENT Act aimed at strengthening oversight of foreign funding and partnerships.
Witnesses discussed current institutional compliance and security practices and emphasized ongoing coordination between universities and federal agencies. At the same time, members raised concerns about potential vulnerabilities related to foreign collaborations and research integrity. Across both hearings, lawmakers stressed the importance of balancing stronger accountability and national security safeguards with maintaining openness, international collaboration, and the global talent pipeline that supports U.S. research competitiveness.
House Appropriations Subcommittee Conducts an Oversight Hearing on NIH
On March 17, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies convened an oversight hearing on the NIH featuring Director Jay Bhattacharya. Members from both parties focused on NIH’s implementation of its FY26 budget and sought assurances that appropriated funds would be obligated efficiently and in accordance with congressional direction.
In addition to funding execution, the hearing addressed NIH staffing and leadership issues, including timelines for filling several acting institute director roles. Lawmakers also discussed proposals related to the geographic distribution of research funding, facilities and administrative cost support, and research security considerations. The discussion reflected continued bipartisan interest in ensuring NIH resources are deployed transparently and aligned with congressional priorities.
SBIR/STTR Programs Reauthorized
Congress completed action on the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act (S. 3971) in March, with the House passing the bill on March 18 following earlier Senate approval. President Trump signed the legislation into law on April 13, formally reauthorizing both programs.
The legislation extends the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs for five years, through September 30, 2031. The SBIR and STTR programs provide critical federal support to help small businesses translate research discoveries into commercial technologies, often in partnership with universities.
Trump Administration Releases AI Policy Blueprint
On March 20, the Trump administration released a national policy blueprint outlining legislative recommendations for AI. The framework emphasizes support for innovation, expanded access to federal data for AI research, workforce development, and a more unified federal regulatory approach.
The blueprint also calls on Congress to consider preempting certain state-level AI regulations in favor of a consistent national framework, while retaining targeted protections in areas such as children’s safety. The proposal has generated mixed reactions, with some stakeholders welcoming clearer federal guidance and others raising concerns about the implications for state flexibility and oversight.