The cut, and more uncertainty over federal grants, come as the historically Black university faces a financial shortfall.

Tennessee State University could lose at least $14.4 million in grant funding due to the Trump administration's aggressive spending cuts, university leaders told board members this week. Why it matters: Losing grant funding would further complicate TSU's efforts to recover from a crushing financial crisis.

The spending bill expected to pass the Senate on Friday could bolster President Donald Trump’s push to wrest power away from Congress, giving the administration even greater control over the budget as he seeks to shrink the federal government.

Tennessee State University, which has already been experiencing financial hardship, has been affected by the suspension of millions in federal grants.