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
UW–Madison participating in legal challenges to prevent wrongful funding cuts, grant terminations and delays
An update on UW–Madison's participation in legal challenges to prevent wrongful funding cuts, grant terminations and delays.
April 17, 2026Wisconsin Public Media federal funding status update
On March 31, a federal judge blocked an executive order from last year that prohibited federal funding of PBS and NPR. This ruling ultimately reaffirms the rights of a free and independent press. This ruling does not reverse the rescission vote by Congress that removed federal funding for public media.
April 2, 2026Summary of the proposed “duration of status” rule change
International Student Services provides a summary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) proposed federal rule change to end “duration of status” (D/S) for nonimmigrants granted entry to the U.S. in F, J, or I status. Duration of status refers to the period of lawful stay a nonimmigrant in F, J, or I status is granted upon entry to the U.S. on the Form I-94. (The I nonimmigrant visa status is not a visa type sponsored by UW-Madison.)
February 26, 2026Updates regarding the Feb. 14, 2025 Dear Colleague Letter
Earlier this year, two cases challenging the Feb. 14, 2025 Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) and related directives were dismissed following the government’s withdrawal of its appeal and agreement to not enforce directives in the DCL. The government dismissal of the appeal does not impact UW–Madison’s current guidance.
February 24, 2026- More news and updates