The October 2012 Update from the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) provides a detailed overview of ongoing federal policy developments affecting research institutions, particularly in the context of grants administration, regulatory compliance, and research funding. Key topics include delays in the anticipated revisions to OMB Circular A-21, ongoing efforts to reduce regulatory burdens on research universities, and a request for a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) review to assess the impact of federal regulations on higher education. The report also highlights the implications of federal budgetary uncertainties, such as sequestration and continuing resolutions, with particular concern for significant reductions in research funding that could adversely affect institutions receiving NIH and NSF support.
The update covers the release of significant reports and policy changes, including the National Research Council's recommendations for strengthening U.S. research universities, updates to OIG audit plans with new audit methodologies and concerns around administrative cost findings, and costing developments related to federal awards. Attention is given to proposed changes in regulations regarding the safeguarding of contractor information systems, patent reform—especially the implementation of "first inventor to file" and debates around the grace period for academic publications—and the major Myriad gene patent case. The document also addresses revisions in select agent/toxin regulations, the NIH's new grants policy statement, enhanced financial conflict of interest oversight, and updates to NSF's policies and electronic reporting systems. Throughout, COGR outlines its advocacy efforts, summarizes regulatory adjustments, and alerts member institutions to compliance requirements and opportunities for input, reflecting the organization's ongoing commitment to representing the interests of research institutions in federal policy deliberations.
