NIH resumes critical grant-making process after federal communications freeze at HHS

When Trump took office, he initiated a freeze on external communications at HHS and all of its sub-agencies. Earlier this week, HHS spokesman Andrew Nixon said that "several types of external communications" are no longer subject to the pause, and "all HHS divisions have been given clear guidance on how to seek approval for any other type of mass communication."

NIH is currently taking things day-by-day to ensure they are meeting their obligations under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, which governs the operation of federal advisory committees and emphasizes public involvement through open meetings and reporting.

Travel and hiring for such work can continue as well, Memoli indicated, but his office must grant specific exemptions for new hires as Trump also initiated a freeze on the hiring of new federal civilian employees across all agencies during his first week in office. Routine travel planned for after Feb. 1 "does not need to be canceled at this time," Memoli added. Patients receiving treatment at NIH facilities can also continue to do so. 

NIH can also submit documents to the Federal Register and send correspondence to public officials.