Policy Perspective
COGR Submits Comments on Common Rule NPRM and Provides Summary Brief
COGR Detailed and Summary Comments on Common Rule
COGR Submits Comments on NIH Guidelines on Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules
COGR responded to the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) request for public comments regarding proposed amendments to the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules. COGR expresses support for the NIH’s intention to optimize the benefit of the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC) review process by restricting detailed gene transfer reviews to excep
October 2015 COGR Meeting Report Published
The October 22-23, 2015 meeting report from the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) provides a comprehensive overview of key regulatory, policy, and administrative developments affecting research universities and affiliated organizations. Central topics included ongoing federal regulatory reform such as the Common Rule NPRM, in which COGR and its members advocate for comment period extensions
October 30, 2015- COGR/AAU Joint Letter on DFARS Case 2013-D018
The joint letter from the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) and the Association of American Universities (AAU) addresses concerns regarding the interim DFARS rule (Case 2013-D018), which introduces new safeguarding and reporting requirements for institutions handling controlled defense information. COGR and AAU, representing leading research universities, highlight significant compliance bu
October 28, 2015- COGR Responds to Part 1 of the National Academies Report
The Council on Governmental Relations (COGR), representing major research universities, provides a detailed response to the National Academy of Sciences’ report on optimizing federal research regulations. COGR broadly supports recommendations aimed at streamlining grant application processes, harmonizing regulations across federal agencies, and reducing administrative burdens—particularly through
September 24, 2015 COGR Letter to OMB on UG Deviations
The Council on Governmental Relations (COGR), representing research universities, addressed a formal letter on September 24, 2015, to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) expressing concerns about federal agencies’ deviations from the Uniform Guidance (UG) under 2 CFR 200, which governs administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements for federal awards. COGR highlighted r
September 4, 2015 - COGR Comment Letter to the Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division Regarding RIN 1235-AA11
The September 4, 2015 letter from the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR), representing 190 research universities and affiliated institutes, addresses the U.S. Department of Labor's proposed changes to the exemptions for executive, administrative, professional, outside sales, and computer employees under RIN 1235-AA11. The primary concern expressed is the Department’s plan to significant
