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On May 16, 2025, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce has rescinded the latest six funding awards previously announced under the Tech Hubs Program and will be reopening the application process, with certain modifications. The previously awarded projects, announced in January 2025, were described by Secretary Lutnick as being “rushed, opaque, and unfair.” He noted that the awards were made without available funds and were based on “outdated applications, lacking proper competition.”

For the first time in 20 years, Congress has reauthorized the US Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA). On January 4 2025, the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (S. 4367) was signed into law, following its passage in the House and Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support. The reauthorization of the EDA will strengthen and protect EDA’s programs and will enhance key initiatives that are vital to the success of NADO members and Economic Development Districts across the country.

The U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW) voted to advance the Economic Development Reauthorization Act of 2024 (S. 3891) by voice vote on March 12. This legislation, if enacted, would reauthorize the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the first time in nearly 20 years.

As August recess approaches, Congress continues to work through the annual appropriations process for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. While some progress has been made, there is still a long road ahead to avoid a government shutdown and ensure stable funding for key federal programs.

On July 4, President Trump signed into law the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is a comprehensive legislative package that addresses a wide range of policy areas, including tax reform, healthcare, defense spending, border security, workforce development, and energy policy.