Current Issues

• State Appropriations

  January 2025 - The 103rd Michigan Legislature is now in full swing, and the state budget process is set to begin with Governor Whitmer's proposal for the FY2026 budget. By law, Governor Whitmer must present her budget proposal within 30 days of the Legislature's convening. Following this, each legislative chamber will review, deliberate, and draft their own versions of the budget, leading to negotiations between the chambers.

• Federal Financial Aid

  Protect Student Financial Aid 

  Federal financial aid is essential to ensuring students can access and complete their education. Each year, Michigan State University students receive over $400 million in federal financial aid, supporting thousands in pursuing their degrees and future careers.

  This funding directly impacts graduation rates, student retention, workforce and economic development, and medical and technological advancements.
  
  Message your Congressional representatives in less than 5 minutes. 

• One-Pagers
  National Institutes of Health - Indirect Funding
  

  On February 7, 2025, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced a standardized indirect cost rate of 15% for all new and existing grants, replacing the previously negotiated rate. This change threatens the financial sustainability of research conducted by Michigan State University throughout Michigan. The federal indirect rate reduction risks wasting taxpayer investments by underfunding the support needed to complete critical research projects.
  
  How to Meet with a Lawmaker

  Effective communication is essential at all stages—before, during, and after meetings with lawmakers. It is crucial to balance the requirements of the lawmaker's office with strategies that effectively drive your planned objectives. Additionally, regular follow-up is key to sustaining a lasting and fruitful partnership.