Washington Update (2025 Legislative Update)-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a recent webinar by CASE, key topics centered around legislative updates and challenges in Washington, D.C. Brian Flavin, CASE Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, led discussions on executive actions affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, alongside potential budget implications and tax reforms.<br /><br />Jessica Elmore discussed the Trump administration's recent executive orders targeting DEI programs, highlighting a series of directives threatening federal funding if compliance isn't met, despite existing obligations under non-discrimination laws. Institutions are advised to consult legal counsel for clarity and prepare for potential investigations into DEI practices.<br /><br />Grant Berkshire provided insights into Congress's main legislative focus, particularly around budget resolutions and tax reforms. With budget reconciliation identified as a key tool for tax legislation, hurdles include accommodating massive tax and spending packages amidst internal party differences. Democrats, while possessing some leverage in budget negotiations, particularly to avoid a government shutdown, face challenges given their position.<br /><br />Additionally, the session touched on the impact of NIH's proposed cap on facilities and administrative costs, now paused by a temporary restraining order, with institutions encouraged to engage Congress about the adverse effects on research funding.<br /><br />Lastly, the potential increase in university endowment taxes as a revenue-raising measure was raised as a concern, with an emphasis on advocating for a charitable deduction for non-itemizers to boost giving. CASE continues to advocate alongside higher education and philanthropic entities for solutions beneficial to educational institutions' financial health.

Keywords

legislative updates

Washington D.C.

diversity equity inclusion

executive actions

budget implications

tax reforms

DEI programs

NIH funding

university endowment taxes

philanthropy advocacy