Government Affairs Update: NEA Funding Update and a Unified Call to Action

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The political landscape in Washington, DC continues to evolve daily. Chorus America needs to hear from you: How are the federal government’s actions affecting your work? All stories of specific impact are welcome. Please share your experience here. Thank you to those members who have already shared their stories with us. 

Visit our Government Affairs Resource Page for more tools.

These government affairs updates are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended as legal advice. Nonprofit arts organizations should consult with legal counsel for guidance specific to their circumstances.


Congress is finishing up its work before the August recess. The House has already adjourned, and the Senate is expected to follow by Friday, August 1. This past week was especially active for arts advocates, with key appropriations hearings held in both chambers. Thank you to everyone who responded to our action alerts and contacted Congress in support of FY26 arts funding!


FUNDING UPDATE FY26: National Endowment for the Arts

  • House Proposal: Recommends $135 million each for the NEA and NEH—a 35% cut from current funding levels.
  • Senate Proposal: Maintains level funding of $207 million each for the NEA and NEH.

The House and Senate will need to resolve these differences before the new fiscal year begins on October 1.


UNIFIED CALL TO ACTION: Support the Cultural Agencies

Chorus America is a proud member of the Cultural Advocacy Group (CAG), a coalition of national, state, and regional arts and culture organizations working together to advance pro-arts federal policies.

CAG has issued an urgent call to action for artists, audiences, advocates, and organizations to support continued investment in the NEA, NEH, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

If you value arts and humanities programs in communities across the country, your voice is especially needed in July, August, and September, when FY26 funding decisions are being made.

👉See the full Call to Action and make your voice heard


ARTS EDUCATION ADVOCACY: Vital Funding Still Withheld

As of July 1, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) continues to withhold education funding owed to states and education partners. This delay is forcing the cancellation or postponement of countless programs, including summer camps and after-school initiatives.

Chorus America is joining with the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) in urging advocates to speak out.

👉 Take action through NAfME's alert


HOUSE PROPOSAL: Rename Kennedy Center Opera House

The House Appropriations Committee has approved a proposal to rename the Kennedy Center’s Opera House in honor of First Lady Melania Trump. The full House must still vote on the measure before it becomes final.


 

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Amy Fitterer Headshot

Amy Fitterer is a dynamic leader in association management, government affairs, and the performing arts. She has consulted for OPERA America and Partners in Performance, supporting advocacy and strategic planning efforts. As Executive Director of Dance/USA (2011–2020), she led its transformation into a more equitable and financially strong organization, launching initiatives like Dance/USA Fellowships to Artists. Previously, she directed government affairs for OPERA America and Dance/USA, successfully advocating for arts funding and policy improvements. A former ballet dancer and pianist, Amy holds degrees from Indiana University and Columbia University. She lives in northern Virginia with her family and enjoys dance, music, and fitness.