UW-Madison’s Office of Federal Relations is coordinating the campus response to emerging federal updates, including executive orders, agency directives and congressional activity. Representatives from across campus, including Strategic Communication, the Provost’s Office, the Office of Legal Affairs, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Student Affairs, the Office of Human Resources, the International Division, the Division of Enrollment Management, UWPD, and additional offices, are monitoring these issues and coordinating communication.
Last update: November 25, 2025
Messages for Campus
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, 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, 2025Food access during FoodShare suspension
Due to the government shutdown, FoodShare (often known as SNAP) benefits for November are expected to be delayed. Student Affairs shared resources available for students who depend on SNAP, or need emergency food assistance.
October 30, 2025AAU, U.S. Chamber of Commerce contest $100,000 petition fee for H-1B visa
The Association of American Universities and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have joined together in a lawsuit challenging the $100,000 petition fee employers are required to pay for employees working with an H-1B visa.
October 27, 2025- More campus messages regarding federal updates.
Questions?
Campus community members can reach out to University Relations, the centralized point of contact for resources and information related to emerging federal updates. Campus units are asked to coordinate with our office before planning communication on federal actions and activities.
Resources
Research & Sponsored Programs
Researchers with federally-funded projects should consult these resources.
Administrative & Congressional Updates
Additional information and resources for understanding federal activities.
Human Resources & Immigration
Resources related to immigration, administrative compliance and more.
Association & Partners Updates
Updates and information from higher-ed coalitions, associations and partners.
Other Resources
A list of resources for campus employees.
Focus on Mission
As UW–Madison assesses the evolving governmental landscape, our focus remains on our mission. We are committed to the Wisconsin Idea, which states that what we do here at the University should enhance the lives of every person in the State of Wisconsin, as well as around the nation and the world.