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Register by October 17 to Secure Your Spot!
| Registration Type | Member Price |
|---|---|
| Early Bird Registration (Sept. 11-Oct.3) | $750 |
| General Registration (Oct. 4-Oct.17) | $850 |
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.
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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.
Another Strong Day on Capitol Hill Supporting the Tax-Exempt Sector
On March 24, Chorus America joined hundreds of advocates from across the tax-exempt sector to highlight the vital work nonprofits do every day.
Federal oversight of the sector is increasing. Congressional hearings on foreign influence and a new Executive Order establishing a Task Force to Eliminate Fraud demonstrate the growing scrutiny. Advocates continue to emphasize that most nonprofits operate legally and provide essential services that strengthen communities.
During our meetings, we supported the Safeguarding Charities Act of 2025, introduced by Senator Lankford (R-OK) and Representative Steube (R-FL). The legislation protects nonprofits that do not receive federal funding from inappropriate government interference and reaffirms that tax-exempt status is not the same as accepting federal funds. Chorus America met with staff in the offices of Senator Warner (D-VA), Senator Cantwell (D-WA), and Representative Tonko (D-NY), and shared updates on choral activity in their districts.
Thank you to ASAE for organizing this national Hill Day for associations.
Chorus America Joins Opposition to Proposed GSA Changes
As noted last week, the General Services Administration is proposing changes to the System for Award Management. These changes would require nonprofits seeking federal funding to certify that they do not promote certain DEI or gender-related concepts.
The National Council of Nonprofits and the Legal Defense Fund will continue to gather signatories for their letter opposing these changes until March 30.
Read and sign the letter here.
American Stories Act of 2026 Introduced
On March 11, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced the American Stories Act (S. 4058). The bill is created to, “authorize the National Foundation for the Arts and the National Foundation for the Humanities to support activities for the purpose of broadening public understanding of civics and the United States Constitution.” The legislation has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Chorus America will continue to monitor this legislation.
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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.
