The 2008 federal fiscal year (FY) began on October 1, 2007. However, Congress did not finish any of the appropriations bills that would give federal agencies their budgets. Instead, Congress passed a “continuing resolution,” or temporary appropriations bill, that extends funding at 2007 levels through November 16, 2007. In previous years, Congress has issued more than one continuing resolution when more time was needed to finish the budget appropriations. Last year, for example, the FY 2007 federal budget was not passed until February 2007.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science R&D Budget and Policy Program provides up-to-date information and analysis on the federal budget process, including the status of FY 2008 appropriations, as does the Association of American Universities.
The National Institutes of Health issued guidance on Non-Competing Grant Awards Under the Current Continuing Resolution in the October 5 NIH Guide, stating:
“Until the final FY 2008 appropriation is enacted, NIH will issue non-competing research grant awards at a level below that indicated on the most recent Notice of Award (generally up to 80% of the previously committed level). This is consistent with our practice during the CRs of FY 2006 & 2007. NIH will consider upward adjustments to these levels after the final appropriation is enacted, but expects institutions to monitor their expenditures carefully during this period.”
August 20 Research Advocate article: America COMPETES Act to Fund Federal STEM Programs
