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Federal Updates2025-10-03T14:18:42-05:00

Federal Government Shutdown FAQs

Proposals & Application Systems

How will peer reviews and study sections be affected by a shutdown?2025-10-03T14:09:32-05:00

Most peer reviews and study sections will likely be suspended, delaying the review and funding decisions for pending proposals.

Will Grants.gov still be available during a government shutdown?2025-10-03T14:09:03-05:00

The Grants.gov Contact Center may remain available, but the full functionality of the Help Desk system is uncertain.

What happens to proposals after they are submitted during a shutdown?2025-10-03T14:08:13-05:00

Proposal processing will likely be delayed, as federal sponsors generally suspend reviews until normal operations resume. Applicants should continue to monitor sponsor announcements for any changes or deadline extensions.

Can proposal submission deadlines be extended because of a government shutdown?2025-10-03T14:06:55-05:00

No, proposals must still be submitted by the sponsor’s stated due date. Federal sponsors will only extend deadlines if they issue an official extension notice.

Will proposal preparation and submission systems remain operational during a government shutdown?2025-10-03T14:06:23-05:00

Yes, based on past shutdowns, we anticipate that proposal submission systems will remain operational

Award Management

Can work on current projects continue during a government shutdown?2025-10-03T14:10:06-05:00

Yes. Work on existing projects with available funds may continue through the approved period of performance, unless a Stop Work Order is issued.

What happens if a Stop Work Order is issued?2025-10-03T14:10:28-05:00

If a Stop Work Order is implemented, employees paid from the award can no longer be paid with federal funds until further notice.

Will new awards, extensions, or changes be processed during a shutdown?2025-10-03T14:10:52-05:00

No. Expect a freeze on all new federal awards. Most administrative actions—such as no-cost extensions, budget revisions, and funding increments—will also be paused.

Can awardees receive reimbursements during a government shutdown?2025-10-03T14:11:15-05:00

No. Since most federal awards operate on a cost-reimbursable basis, it will not be possible to draw funds or receive reimbursements during the shutdown.

Will federal personnel be available for communication?2025-10-03T14:11:37-05:00

No. Contracting officers, grant managers, and program managers will be unavailable during the shutdown. Response delays are also likely even after normal operations resume.

What happens to project closeouts during a shutdown?2025-10-03T14:11:59-05:00

Project closeouts will likely be delayed, as federal sponsors are generally unable to process them during the shutdown.

Other Resources

Where can I find additional information about federal government shutdowns?2025-10-03T14:12:46-05:00

The Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) has compiled a comprehensive resource on shutdown considerations. You can access it here: COGR Shutdown Considerations.

Who should I contact if I have questions about my award during a government shutdown?2025-10-03T14:13:14-05:00

Please contact the Office of Research Grants & Contracts at awards@pvamu.edu or reach out to your assigned SRS administrator.