Dear Colleagues,

We know you have questions regarding guidance issued by the White House last week, and multiple actions in federal courts, all of which concern federal funding in light of the numerous presidential actions taken in the last two weeks.

On Friday the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) that prevents federal agencies from freezing or blocking funding on grants or contracts that have already been awarded. This order supersedes all prior guidance from the federal government or federal courts.

The TRO does not extend to stop work orders issued on specific grants “on the basis of the applicable authorizing statutes, regulations, and terms.” If you have received a stop work order, please consult with your campus legal counsel.

The most recent order can be found here. The court has given the federal administration until Monday, February 3, 2025 to comply. More information will be forthcoming after various court actions on Monday.

These issues are rapidly evolving, and we recognize the uncertainty and worry our campus communities are experiencing. We are here for you, and we are actively working with the President, Chancellors and our legal team.  We encourage you to contact your campus leadership with questions and to discuss impacts on your projects, programs, and departments. The Office of University Counsel and the Office of Federal Relations will continue to analyze the potential impact of these actions on the university’s mission and the people who work and learn on our campuses.  Please visit the CU System Federal Transitions Update page for up-to-date communications and federal memos.  

Jeremy Hueth, Vice President, University Counsel  
Danielle Radovich Piper, Sr. VP External Relations and Strategy