We the people ask NIH to increase the modular budget cap, allow increases on all NIH budgets for Postdoctoral Fellows. These future scientists have modest salaries and limited benefits, due to the following constraints:
1. Fellows do not receive benefits, including retirement benefits, at the level of other full-time employees.
2. Fellows often have young families and pay insurance premiums that are very high relative to their incomes.
3. Many fellows live away from home, leaving them with limited to no support network.
4. Salary restrictions in grant budgets for fellows funded on NIH grants do not support annual salary increases.
5. Salary guidelines do not consider the drastic cost of living difference across the US, especially in metropolitan areas.



