By National Council of Nonprofits
The General Services Administration (GSA) has proposed requiring all federal grantees, including nonprofits, state, local, and Tribal government, and other entities, to sign new certifications under the threat of civil and criminal penalties before applying for or receiving federal resources, including grants, cooperative agreements, and other assistance. These certifications attempt to align with President Trump’s executive order and the U.S. Department of Justice guidance, misrepresenting “illegal” diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, undocumented immigration, and terrorism. For more information, read the proposed changes and supporting materials.
The proposed changes create significant legal and financial risks to grantees, jeopardizing community access to critical services. The new certifications are vague and complex, making it nearly impossible for grantees to know whether they are in compliance. Moreover, it exposes grantees to possible legal harassment, which may force them to spend time and resources defending themselves in audits, investigations, and court. Grantees may decide that it is not worth the risk and will forgo applying for federal resources altogether, leading to service disruptions in communities and states nationwide, impacting housing, community development, health, education, food, shelter, community services, disaster recovery, and more. Ultimately, the proposed changes will harm the people and communities that rely on nonprofits and other federal grantees, and the essential services they provide.
The public has until March 30 to submit public comments in opposition to the proposal. NCN has created several tools to help you and nonprofits nationwide make your voices heard. Please help us share these with nonprofits in your state!
We’re encouraging nonprofits to take action by March 30:
- Sign a national letter led by the National Council of Nonprofits and Legal Defense Fund opposing the proposed changes.
- Submit a comment letter using NCN’s comment guide, which includes talking points, instructions, and more information.
- Email your members of Congress and urge them to help protect nonprofit grantees and the communities they serve.