Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s announced policy to cap indirect costs for National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grants:

“Houston is home to the largest medical complex in the world, where cutting-edge medical research takes place and saves lives.  For decades, Houston’s medical institutions have been leaders in scientific breakthroughs because of a partnership with the federal government and federal investments in medical and scientific research.  And the United States has led the world because of its partnerships with institutions here in Houston and across the country that do this important work. 

“The Trump administration’s cuts to NIH research grant funding jeopardize so much of the work we are so proud to do here.  There is no doubt that these caps will lead to the elimination of jobs in medical and research fields, halt critical research, and delay advancements in the treatments of diseases ranging from cancer to Alzheimer’s to rare genetic disorders.  We cannot afford to turn our backs on the researchers who dedicate their lives to medical progress or to their important work.  And we cannot allow the Trump administration to ignore Congress’ funding directives or the contracts already in place between the government and our research institutions.  I will continue fighting to restore and protect NIH funding so that Houston remains at the forefront of global medical innovation.”