Preparing for Possible Federal Government Shutdown, 9-30-2025

Good morning,

Reports indicate a likely impasse on funding the federal government. Absent an agreement, a federal government shutdown will occur as of 10:01 p.m. MT today, Sept. 30.

Leadership at CU Anschutz, along with our federal relations team and other campus partners, are closely monitoring the situation as it evolves and preparing for possible impacts to federally sponsored research, education and clinical programs.

Given the fluid and unpredictable state of the federal government currently, we are preparing for a wide range of possible impacts. While the most immediate effects may be on federally funded research projects, an extended shutdown could also impact human resources, financial aid, and certain clinical and training programs.

While we don’t know if a shutdown will occur, or how long it might last, we are actively preparing. Guidance has been provided to researchers most likely to be immediately affected. Impacts could extend beyond previous shutdown experiences, including the possibility that the government may not reimburse some costs incurred during the shutdown. We will continue to carefully assess developments in partnership with our government affairs, budget, academic and legal teams.

If a shutdown occurs, we will communicate regularly regarding its effects on CU Anschutz, coordinating additional notifications with schools, colleges, centers and institutes as needed.

Following initial notifications, we will continue to share updates with our community through our campus Federal Updates website, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research Federal Updates webpage and other communication channels.

At times of uncertainty, we can find clarity in our vital mission as an academic medical campus. We are grateful for you and all of the exceptional people at CU Anschutz who share a commitment to advancing education, science, health and medicine. 

Sincerely,

Don Elliman
Chancellor