Government Affairs Update: Congressional Recess Opportunities, House Reconciliation Vote, NEA Funding Still Under Threat, and More

May 23, 2025
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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.

Congressional Recess: Time to Engage Locally

Members of Congress are home during the May district work period—a key opportunity to engage. Invite your Representatives or their staff to performances, rehearsals, and educational programs, or request a local meeting.
👉 Find your elected officials and district offices here.

Rep. Chellie Pingree Addresses Arts Advocates

This week, Rep. Pingree (D-ME) spoke to the Cultural Advocacy Group.

  • She’s the ranking member of the House Subcommittee that funds the NEA
  • Co-chair of the Congressional Arts Caucus (with Rep. Turner, R-OH)
  • Key message: Constituent voices matter—calls and messages are counted and make a difference

House Passes Reconciliation Bill (H.R. 1)

The House narrowly passed the One Big Beautiful Bill (H.R. 1) on May 22.

Included: A modified version of the Charitable Act

Omitted: The full Charitable Act, which nonprofits are urging the Senate to restore

Concerns: New tax on private foundations among other provisions

Good news: The final House bill did not include a controversial measure that would allow the Treasury Secretary to designate a 501c3 organization to be a terrorist “supporting” organization and unilaterally revoke tax exempt status without due process.  Thank you to all who responded to our action alert!

👉 Take Action: Ask the Senate to support the nonprofit sector

FY26 Arts Agency Funding: Appropriations Underway

The FY26 budget process—separate from reconciliation—is moving forward.

  • The President’s budget, released May 2, proposes eliminating the NEA
  • House Appropriations Subcommittees are now drafting funding bills
  • The House Interior Subcommittee (which funds cultural agencies) meets in late June

While the NEA has bipartisan support, members are under pressure to align with the President’s proposal.  Now is the time to contact your lawmakers about the impact of NEA and state arts agency funding in your community.

👉 Take Action: Urge Congress to support the NEA

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.