Congress Approves Science Funding Bill, Rejecting Trump Cuts

Jan 16, 2026, 2:17 AM

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In a significant legislative action, Congress has passed a bipartisan bill to fund US science agencies, effectively rebuffing President Trump's proposed budget cuts. The Senate approved the bill with an 82-15 vote, following a strong showing in the House, where it passed 397 to 28.

The new funding package allocates billions more to key agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), NASA, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) than what the Trump administration had requested. Specifically, the bill provides $1.67 billion more for NOAA and $5.63 billion more for NASA, countering proposed cuts of 57% for the NSF and nearly 47% for NASA's science research budget.

Senator Patty Murray, a leading advocate for the bill, emphasized the importance of maintaining robust funding for scientific research. "We rejected Trump's plan to slash the funding for scientific research and the National Science Foundation's budget," she stated, highlighting the critical role these agencies play in weather forecasting and climate research.

The bipartisan support for the bill indicates a collective decision among lawmakers to preserve existing funding levels rather than implement the drastic cuts proposed by the Trump administration. The legislation also includes provisions to boost staffing at the National Weather Service, which had faced significant reductions under previous budget proposals.

Senator Susan Collins, who co-led the effort, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "I'm pleased that we restored funding that was proposed to be cut." She also noted the bill's provisions to address indirect research costs, which cover essential operational expenses for research agencies.

Despite the overall reduction in federal spending, the bill's passage reflects a commitment to science and research, with specific boosts for programs targeted for elimination by the Trump administration. This includes funding for NOAA's satellite program, which is vital for monitoring climate and weather patterns.

The bill now awaits President Trump's signature, with indications from the White House suggesting that the administration supports the legislation, despite its overall spending reductions. A statement from the White House Office of Management and Budget noted that the bill would help the nation achieve "energy dominance" while still decreasing overall spending.

As Congress prepares to tackle additional funding measures for various agencies, including those related to labor and health care, the urgency to finalize these bills is underscored by a looming deadline of January 30. This date marks the expiration of a stopgap funding measure that previously ended a 43-day government shutdown.

The passage of this funding bill not only secures vital resources for scientific research but also reasserts Congress's authority over federal spending decisions, countering attempts by the executive branch to unilaterally impose budget cuts.

In summary, the bipartisan support for this funding bill highlights a collective commitment to maintaining and enhancing the capabilities of US science agencies, ensuring that critical research and environmental monitoring continue unabated in the face of proposed cuts.

The implications of this legislation extend beyond immediate funding, as it reinforces the role of Congress in determining the allocation of taxpayer dollars for essential scientific endeavors.

As lawmakers continue to navigate the complexities of federal budgeting, the successful passage of this bill serves as a reminder of the importance of bipartisan cooperation in safeguarding the future of scientific research in the United States.

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