Preparing for a potential government shutdown

From: Simon Atkinson, Vice Chancellor for Research
Sent: Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, 3:20 p.m.
To: KU Lawrence/Edwards Faculty & Academic Staff; Grant Coordinators

Dear KU Research Community,

By now you are probably aware that a government shutdown is looking more likely after the current federal fiscal year ends on Sept. 30. The Office of Research has been actively planning for this possibility, including through direct communication with KU investigators.

Work on most active, federally funded projects (including all grants) can continue during a shutdown, unless the project passes its end date. Award Management Services will notify PIs of any contracts that do not allow work to continue. We have cash reserves sufficient to continue to pay personnel for the duration of a shutdown, unless it continues much longer than anyone anticipates. 

Several important reminders:

  1. It will not be possible to reach program officers or other personnel at funding agencies until the government reopens. If you anticipate a need to contact someone, now is the time to do so.
     
  2. Proposals due in early October should be submitted now to allow for any issues to be resolved. Pre-Award staff have been working to ensure PIs are aware. 
     
  3. AMS staff have been contacting PIs about any upcoming reports, requests for no-cost extensions or other matters that should be addressed before a shutdown; it will not be possible to do this while agency personnel are furloughed. Completion of these tasks may be necessary to ensure that work can continue. 
     
  4. We will provide regularly updated Government Shutdown Information on the KU Research website. Please consult the webpage for the latest information.

The KU research community has managed through previous government shutdowns, and we are well-prepared to handle most scenarios if Congress does not come to an agreement on appropriations or a continuing resolution by Oct. 1. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you minimize the impact of a government shutdown on your research program. You may contact Alicia Reed at amreed@ku.edu.

Respectfully,

Simon Atkinson
Vice Chancellor for Research