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.
Messages for Campus
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, 2026Federal appropriations update
Last week, President Trump signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. 11 of the 12 regular appropriations bills are now enacted for FY26, with the exception of the Homeland Security appropriations bill. The likelihood of a partial government shutdown is high, though we do not anticipate any significant impacts on UW–Madison’s operations.
February 13, 2026- 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.