Simplifying Research Regulations and Policies: Optimizing American Science

Published September 3, 2025, a National Academies Committee conducted an expedited study to examine federal research regulations and identify ways to improve regulatory processes and administrative tasks, reduce or eliminate unnecessary work, and modify and remove policies and regulations that have outlived their purpose while maintaining necessary and appropriate integrity, accountability, and oversight. Research security specific options include: implement the NSPM-33 common disclosure forms and disclosure table without deviation; establish common principles for agency research security risk reviews for fundamental research; continue prior efforts to streamline and clarify export controls; and adapt cybersecurity requirements for university settings.