AFP Statement Opposing Proposed SAM.gov Certification Changes

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is deeply concerned about proposed changes to the federal System for Award Management (SAM.gov) which would require nonprofits and other federal grantees to sign new certifications under penalty of civil and criminal law in order to access federal funding.

SAM.gov is a critical portal used by nonprofits, state and local governments, and other entities to apply for and manage federal grants and assistance. The proposed certifications are vague, complex, and tied to executive orders and federal guidance on issues such as diversity, equity, inclusion, immigration, and terrorism. The lack of clear standards creates significant legal and compliance uncertainty for organizations acting in good faith.

Nonprofits partner with the federal government to deliver essential services efficiently and responsibly. Unclear or overly punitive requirements introduce legal and financial risks that many organizations, particularly small, rural, and community based nonprofits, are not equipped to absorb. Even the threat of audits, investigations, or legal challenges diverts time and resources away from mission critical work.

Simply put, unclear rules cause nonprofits to step back from federal funding, a decision that harms families, seniors, veterans, children, and individuals with disabilities who rely on services supported through federal nonprofit partnerships. 

“These proposed certifications are especially concerning because their ambiguity places community based providers at risk first,” said Art Taylor, president & CEO of AFP. “Veterans’ services, disability support programs, faith based organizations, and reentry and rehabilitation providers could all be forced to step back from federal funding simply because the rules are unclear, which would have a negative impact on citizens across the political spectrum.” 

AFP urges the General Services Administration to withdraw or substantially revise the proposed SAM.gov certification requirements and to engage meaningfully with the nonprofit sector to ensure that federal funding systems remain clear, fair, and accessible.

AFP also encourages its members and the broader nonprofit community to submit public comments opposing the proposal before the March 30 deadline, and to share their concerns with policymakers about the real world consequences these changes could have on communities nationwide through AFP’s embedded form below.