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H.R. 7173: Follow the Science Act

The bill known as the "Follow the Science Act" proposes several amendments to the Public Health Service Act aimed at promoting scientific integrity within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and preventing political influence over its activities. Below are the key components of the bill:

Definition of Political Appointee

The bill introduces a specific definition for “political employee,” which includes individuals in high-level governmental positions and certain confidential roles. This definition will clearly identify who is considered a political appointee under this legislation.

Restrictions on Political Appointees' Involvement at NIH

The bill proposes to restrict most political appointees from participating in NIH activities. Specifically:

Political employees cannot be employed by the NIH or contribute to the management of NIH programs.
Exceptions to this rule are made for certain leaders of NIH, including the NIH Director and some other high-ranking officials.

Limitations on Political Employees Regarding NIH Funding

Political appointees would also be prohibited from participating in the grant and funding processes within NIH:

No political employee may be involved in the solicitation, review, or awarding of grants, contracts, and other funding arrangements managed by the NIH.

The Secretary of Health, acting through the NIH Director, must ensure compliance with these restrictions.

Reporting Requirements to Congress

The bill mandates that the NIH Director submit a report to Congress within 30 days of the bill’s enactment, detailing the participation of political employees in NIH activities from January 20, 2021, to the bill's enactment date.

Terms for Project Management and Funding Agreements

The legislation emphasizes rules surrounding the management of NIH agreements, which include:

Cancellations or delays of projects funded by NIH can only occur if there are documented findings of serious issues such as financial mismanagement or fraud.
Any cancellations must be reported to specified congressional committees, with supporting documentation provided within 30 days.

Overall, the "Follow the Science Act" seeks to enhance the independence and integrity of scientific research funded by the NIH by limiting the involvement of political appointees in its operations and funding processes.