On January 28, 2026, the General Services Administration proposed changes to the online system nonprofits use to receive federal funding. There is only a short window for public comment, and the deadline is March 30. If adopted, these changes would require organizations like Emergency Food Network (EFN) to sign new certifications tied to executive orders issued on diversity, immigration, and national security.

Why This Matters

An executive order is not a law passed by Congress. It is a directive from a president about how federal agencies operate. It does not go through the full legislative process. Executive orders can also be challenged in court and may change over time.

Under the proposed rule, nonprofits would have to certify compliance with language connected to these executive orders under the threat of civil and criminal penalties. That creates serious liability.

For EFN, this is not theoretical. It is immediate and real.

One of the most important ways EFN supports our 75+ partner food pantries is through federally funded food programs, including TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program). TEFAP supplies truckloads of staple foods: canned fruits and vegetables, milk, meat, grains, and more. For many of our partners, TEFAP food is not supplemental, it’s foundational.

If EFN signs a certification with unclear legal standards, we assume significant risk. If we do not sign, we risk losing access to federal programs like TEFAP.

If TEFAP access is disrupted, the impact would move quickly:

• Fewer trucks arriving at our warehouse
• Less food available for our 75+ pantry partners
• Smaller distributions at local food banks
• Longer lines for families
• Harder choices for seniors, veterans, and working parents

This is not about political sides. It is about stability in our food system.

The National Council of Nonprofits is urging nonprofits and community members to speak up, but time is short.

Take Action by March 30

• Submit a public comment using the NCN comment guide:
  • Talking points and instructions: Government Grants and Contracts Comment Guide 2026
  • Leave a public comment on this site
• Email your members of Congress and urge them to protect nonprofit grantees and the communities they serve: https://app.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder
• Share this email with your friends and family so they know what’s at risk

If you believe in protecting Pierce County’s food system, please act now. Submit a public comment. Contact your members of Congress. Food cannot wait. And neither can we.