COSSA’s Analysis of the President’s FY 2027 Budget Request for Social and Behavioral Science

On April 3, the Trump Administration released its budget proposal for fiscal year (FY) 2027. The document released by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) highlights actions the Administration has taken during its first year in office to cut spending across the federal government, stating that, “The full-year 2026 appropriations bills enacted the first real cut to spending in 12 years…[and] put us on a path to eliminate ineffective Federal agencies that do not serve a useful purpose…”

The FY 2027 budget seeks additional cuts, including a 10 percent reduction to non-defense discretionary spending, while proposing a staggering $1.5 trillion budget for national defense (a 44 percent increase).

With respect to federal science agencies, in some cases the budget proposes similar levels to the FY 2026 budget (which were ultimately rejected by Congress). For example, the budget once again proposes slashing funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF) by more than half and continues down the path of shuttering the Department of Education. In addition, the FY 2027 budget again seeks a major reorganization of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

For other agencies, like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the budget changes course. While still slated for a 12 percent cut under the proposal, this year’s request for NIH is a far cry from the 40 percent reduction sought last year by the Administration.

As always, when considering an Administration’s budget proposal, it is important to remember that it remains a largely symbolic policy document outlining the Administration’s priorities for the year ahead. While it is possible that some of the President’s requests will be enacted, Congress has the final say over the appropriation of funds.

COSSA will continue to report on the progress of FY 2027 funding legislation in the weeks and months ahead. You can follow our coverage here.

In the meantime, we invite you to read on to learn about the President’s proposals as they pertain to social and behavioral science research.