June

URGENT: DFA Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Disastrous Federal Grantmaking Rule

Doctors for America is seeking input from researchers, educators, clinicians, and scientists regarding a proposed federal rule that could unduly impact biomedical research and scientific independence. The Office of Management and Budget has proposed a sweeping set of changes that would allow for political interference in all grants awarded by the federal government. Public comments are due on July 13 - filing these comments is critical in building a public record of opposition as DFA and other organizations explore litigation to stop this disastrous rule from taking effect.

 

We are particularly interested in hearing how the proposal could impact existing grants, ongoing and future research, international collaborations, publication and dissemination of findings, attendance at scientific meetings, professional memberships, and access to journals and other essential research resources. We are also concerned about provisions that would expand the government's authority to terminate grants mid-award, require research priorities to align with administration policies, subject research to political review, weaken the role of peer review, and restrict scientific communications. Essentially, what would such a rule mean for you and your work if political appointees decided to not award or terminate your grants due to factors outside of scientific or public health merit?

 

If you have experience with how these changes could affect your work, your institution, or the broader scientific ecosystem, DFA and the federal government want to hear from you. Please consider drafting a comment and sharing your submitted comment with us here.

 

We have gathered the below resources from partner organizations to make the process as straightforward as possible:

 

 

It’s Never Too Early or Late to Become an Advocate!

Ready to grow as a physician advocate and leader? Doctors for America’s Copello Fellowship is a dynamic opportunity to build the skills, confidence, and community needed to create meaningful change for your patients and your community.

 

This year, 16 exceptional fellows will come together each month to learn from experts, and from one another, through interactive sessions focused on advocacy, action planning, media relations, strategic communications, legislative engagement, and more.

 

The fellowship is open to medical students, residents, practicing physicians, and retirees. No prior advocacy experience is required, just a commitment to learning, leading, and making a difference.

Fellows are expected to:

Estimated time commitment: 1–2 hours per week

 

If you’re ready to turn your passion into action, we’d love to hear from you. For more information, please contact Angie Bakke or apply through the link below. Applications are due by Monday, July 6, 2026 at 11:59 pm ET. 

Join us on Thursday, July 16, from 7:30–9:00 pm ET for our New Member Virtual Mixer & Orientation. 

Designed for members who have joined DFA within the past year, this interactive event is a great opportunity to learn more about our mission and programs, connect with fellow physician and trainee advocates from across the country, discover ways to get involved in advocacy, and make the most of your membership. We hope you'll join us!

Join the Access to Affordable Care team on Tuesday, July 7, at 8 pm ET. We are fighting against cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and the ACA that put millions at risk. Register here. 

 

Join the Community Health & Prevention Subcommittees to work on issues of substance use disorders, gun violence prevention, and public health on July 20, at 8 pm ET.  Register Here. 

 

Join the FDA Task Force on Tuesday, July 21, at 8 pm ET! Learn more about how to advocate for safe and effective medical product approvals. Register here.

 

Politics is failing patients—let’s fight back with our words. Join DFA’s Op-Ed Writing Workshop on Wednesday, July 22, at 8 pm ET with expert Editors Drs. Jennifer Obel and Mark Lopatin and learn how to write op-eds that drive real change. Register now and use your voice for impact.

 

Join the Health Justice & Equity Subcommittees to work on issues of gender-affirming care, reproductive rights, and immigrant health justice on Sunday, July 26, at 8 pm ET.  Register Here.