Federal Updates
In January 2025, new presidential and congressional leadership in the federal government began issuing memos, regulations and executive orders, including some with the potential to impact our work and campus community. Visit our Federal Updates page for updates, information and resources relevant to campus.
About the Office of Federal Relations
UW–Madison’s Office of Federal Relations advocates on federal policies and issues that affect the university, and serves as a liaison between the university and the federal government. We work to advance UW–Madison’s interests in Washington, D.C., and share policy and funding developments that may impact the research, education and outreach missions of the University. Learn more.
Congressional Staff Resources & Information
Find resources that highlight the UW–Madison's academic, research and public service mission.
Federal updates & resources
Find updates and resources on emerging federal news relevant to campus.
News & Updates
Professional degree reclassifications
UW–Madison is aware of professional degree reclassifications that are part of the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee’s proposed federal student-loan changes to implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. These changes could impact federal loan options for students in multiple UW–Madison degree programs. We are awaiting the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register will coordinate university comments.
November 25, 2025Congressional Staff See UW–Madison Research Up Close and the Federal Investments Powering Wisconsin Innovation
UW–Madison welcomed congressional staff for a three-day visit to campus, November 12 – 14, to see firsthand how national investments fuel discovery, improve lives, and strengthen Wisconsin's economy. With federal research funding facing new uncertainty, the Office of Federal Relations provided an up-close look at how agency-backed projects support the state’s key industries.
November 25, 2025Federal shutdown ends
By a 222-209 vote in the House of Representatives, a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government through January 30, 2026, has passed Congress. President Trump signed the bill early Thursday morning.
November 13, 2025Nov. 5 federal shutdown update
Today marks the 36th day of the federal government shutdown. Most of the university continues to operate normally.
November 5, 2025- More news and updates