Planned NIH Cuts Threaten Americans’ Health, Senators Charge in Tense Hearing

image via New Scientist

June 11, 2025, 9:00 PM

• •Senators grilled NIH director Jayanta Bhattacharya about budget cuts and research project terminations.
• •Over 300 NIH staff members protested the agency's actions in a letter.
• •The proposed budget cuts could severely impact critical research areas.

During a tense hearing, senators questioned NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya about proposed budget cuts and the termination of numerous research projects. The hearing followed a letter from over 300 NIH staff members who protested the agency's actions. The proposed cuts, including a 40% reduction to the NIH's budget, have raised concerns among scientists and advocates, who fear they could halt critical research, especially in areas like Alzheimer's disease. Senators expressed their disapproval of the budget proposal, highlighting the potential negative impacts on scientific advancements and public health.

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