APLU Statement on President Biden’s FY2025 Budget Request

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities President Mark Becker today released the following statement on the Biden administration’s Fiscal Year 2025 President’s Budget Request.

“The public university community applauds the administration’s strong proposed investments in the Pell Grant program, but investments in science and research fall well short of what are needed to assure that the United States continues to lead the world in innovation and economic prosperity.

“We thank the administration for its proposed $750 increase in the maximum Pell Award as part of efforts to #DoublePell and further growth in student success grants that will help boost college retention and graduation. These investments will help students access and complete college and support a skilled workforce.

“Unfortunately, while the administration calls for increased funding for federal research agencies relative to enacted levels, the request is a retreat from the bold vision outlined in the CHIPS and Science Act. Less than two years after the passage of that legislation, lawmakers have failed to meet their targeted investments in research and development. Today’s budget would add to that shortfall if enacted.

“The U.S. continues to lead the world in innovative sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and advanced energy technology, but that leadership is not a birthright. It requires sustained robust investment in our future, following the formula that has made the U.S. the world’s leading economy for generations. The funding bills Congress passed last week take a significant step backward on these priorities and the administration’s proposal for the next Fiscal Year falls short of addressing the scale of the challenge.

“As Congress looks to begin the Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations process and finalize the remaining Fiscal Year 2024 funding bills, we urge lawmakers to make needed investments in our future that will position us to the have world’s most skilled and productive workforce and secure our place as the world’s innovation powerhouse.”