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: October 30, 2025
Messages for Campus
Food 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, 2025Oct. 22 federal shutdown update
The federal government shutdown has entered its fourth week. Federal Relations, the Office of Legal Affairs, and Research and Sponsored Programs (RSP) continue to monitor the status and impacts as they occur.
October 22, 2025Governor urges continuation of already-awarded Department of Energy grants
Amid reports of plans to terminate over 600 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) funding awards, including $12 million in approved funding to Universities of Wisconsin, Governor Evers send a note to DOE Secretary Chris Wright to highlight the importance and impact of these energy investments for Wisconsinites.
October 16, 2025Update from UW-Madison on continuing shutdown
The federal government shutdown has entered a third week, without progress toward a resolution. Federal Relations, the Office of Legal Affairs, and Research and Sponsored Programs (RSP) continue to monitor the status and impacts as they occur.
October 15, 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.