Government Affairs Update: Chorus America Submits Written Testimony, Support Funding Requests to Congress, and Creative Aging Toolkit

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. 

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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.

Chorus America Submits Written Testimony to House Appropriators

On April 24, Chorus America submitted written testimony to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies in support of FY27 funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. Subcommittee members will review and recommend funding levels for the cultural agencies in the coming weeks and months.

👉 Read Chorus America’s written testimony here.
 

Opportunities to Support Funding Requests to Congress

The FY27 appropriations process is underway. In recent months, advocates have submitted funding requests for the NEA, NEH, and IMLS. You can read the final NEA Dear Colleague letter here and the FY27 community sign-on letter for museums here.

There are now opportunities to support FY27 funding requests for arts education through the Education Department and arts in the juvenile justice system through the Justice Department:

1. The National Association for Music Education is circulating a sign-on letter in support of the Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grant Program, Title IV-A. This flexible block grant supports safe and healthy students, effective use of technology, and a well-rounded education that includes music and the arts. The coalition is requesting $1.6 billion for FY27, the full authorization level under the Every Student Succeeds Act.

👉 Sign on by May 8 using this form. Read the letter to Congress here.

2. The Arts and Juvenile Justice Working Group, led by Spinnaker Government Relations, is circulating a sign-on letter requesting $5 million for the Arts for Justice-Involved Youth demonstration program within the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. This is a set-aside of existing Title V funds, not an increase in overall funding. The letter also urges Congress to release and process funds already allocated in FY25 and FY26.

👉 Sign on by May 22 using this form. Read the letter to Congress here.

New: Creative Aging Toolkit Launched

The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies has released a new toolkit to support the implementation of creative aging programs. The choir community continues to lead in using the arts to support older adults. These resources may be helpful for fundraising, marketing, and community engagement. The Messaging Matrix offers strong talking points on the cognitive, social, and physical benefits of arts participation.

👉 Explore the Creative Aging Toolkit here and the Messaging Matrix here.

What We Are Watching

• Congressional debate on a second reconciliation tax package and potential impacts on the nonprofit sector.
• Proposed changes to the federal grantmaking system, SAM, that would require grantees to further align with Administration Executive Orders related to gender ideology and DEI.
• Upcoming revisions to the Form 990 aimed at increasing transparency and accountability.
• Anticipated reintroduction of the Charity Parity Act, which would expand giving options by allowing Qualified Charitable Distributions from 401(k) and 403(b) accounts.
• And more!

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.