The document outlines actions directed by recent federal legislation aimed at enhancing the efficiency, coherence, and accountability of research administration and regulation. It highlights the establishment of key entities such as the Research Policy Board (RPB) under the 21st Century Cures Act and the Interagency Working Group on Research Regulations in the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act (AICA). These bodies are tasked with harmonizing research regulations, reducing administrative burdens, and fostering stakeholder engagement across federal agencies and the research community. The Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) is actively engaged in implementation efforts, collaborating with partner organizations like AAU and FASEB, providing input on nominating processes for board representation, and drafting correspondence to relevant federal officials to advocate for effective rollout of these reforms.
In parallel, the document details specific areas of focus under the new legislative mandates, including reduction of redundant oversight in subrecipient monitoring, simplification of financial reporting, harmonization and streamlining of animal and human research subject regulations, and clarification of effort reporting methods. Other priorities include raising the micropurchase threshold, developing unified formats and centralized repositories for grants, biosketches, and assurances, increasing use of just-in-time and simplified budgeting processes, and facilitating broader data sharing and protection of research subjects. The document also notes COGR’s ongoing consultations with government agencies and alignment with recommendations from the National Academies, NSB, and GAO, all aiming to ensure statutory changes are implemented thoughtfully and consistently across the research landscape.
