Overview

• A coalition of researchers, labor unions, and advocacy groups has filed new lawsuits against the NIH, claiming its funding cuts violate federal law and administrative procedures.
• The NIH has revoked approximately $17 billion in research grants, including $7.5 billion already spent, targeting projects on DEI, gender identity, vaccine hesitancy, and other politically sensitive topics.
• Critics argue the cuts stem from executive orders by President Trump aimed at eliminating DEI programs and 'gender ideology' from federal agencies.
• The lawsuits warn that these cuts threaten public health, delay scientific advancements, and disproportionately harm underserved communities.
• The NIH has not provided a detailed response, instead referring to a list of terminated grants on its website, while legal experts assert the terminations may breach contract and administrative law.