Federal and State Policy Change Updates

Dear Faculty, Staff and Graduate Students,

The spring semester is moving quickly, and I thank you all for your continued efforts. I have a few updates on relevant state and federal policy changes.

GA-48 Implementation Update

As you all know, last fall, the Governor issued GA-48, “Hardening State Government” against foreign threats. Since November, The Texas A&M University System has been working to develop an implementation plan for all System schools. That plan has been completed, and we’re using it to guide our next steps, which should be fully finalized by May and implemented by July 1. It’s important for you to know that personal travel to the countries identified in the order will still be permitted. There are several steps we will have to take together to ensure the safety of data and new process to follow associated with that travel, but we are working through those details and will share them with you soon.

Continued Engagement on the Hill

We are continuing to engage in important discussions with legislators and agency officials about the positive impacts Texas A&M has on the state, nation and beyond. We remain committed to advocating for the continuation of Facilities & Administration (F&A) rates at their current levels, as they serve an essential function to the university’s capacity for life-changing research in a wide array of areas.

Supporting Individuals Affected by Stop-work Orders or Terminations

We know receiving a stop-work order or termination can be concerning and may require a mitigation plan to address critical needs. Earlier today, Interim Vice President for Research Costas Georgiades distributed guidance to members of the University Research Council and the Council of Principal Investigators regarding plans for risk assessment and mitigation planning, including the potential for funding critical needs in collaboration with colleges. More information on this interim support strategy will be shared as it evolves with further input.

You can always find the latest information about federal policy changes on the federal webpage, and researchers can access agency-specific guidance for principal investigators. If you have questions, concerns or would like to request a visit from a leadership team member, please reach out to my office at provost@tamu.edu.

Thank you,

Alan
Alan Sams
Provost and Executive Vice President