Performing Arts Alliance Newsletter
    June 24, 2015
  Full House of Representatives to debate Interior bill with NEA budget!  
 

 

Tomorrow, the full House of Representatives will consider the FY16 Interior spending bill which includes funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Both the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee and the full Appropriations Committee approved $146 million for the NEA. When the Interior bill goes to the House floor, though, there may be hostile amendments introduced to decrease NEA funding. Members will debate the bill tomorrow, and any amendments that are introduced will be voted on after the July 4th recess.

The FY16 appropriations cycle stands out from previous years because neither the Interior Subcommittee or full Appropriations Committee recommended a cut to the NEA. Also, this is the first time since 2011 that the House is following regular order and considering this appropriations bill. This normal procedure allows lawmakers to debate and vote on the bill and is an important opportunity for you to speak up and advocate for the arts.


You can help sustain NEA funding

Your participation is essential to warding off threats to funding. Contact your Representatives today and urge them to oppose any efforts to decrease NEA funding. Tell them about the importance of the NEA for encouraging public knowledge, education, understanding, and appreciation for the arts in America.

 

 

Make it personal!

When you write to your Representatives, tell them about your organization and/or a project that has received an NEA or state arts council grant. Explain how that support has helped your organization serve your community, and ask your Representative to share this in a speech on the House floor. Take action today and speak up for the NEA!

  
The Performing Arts Alliance (PAA) is a 501c4 multi-disciplinary coalition of national service organizations from the professional nonprofit performing arts field. Through legislative and grassroots action, PAA advocates before the U.S. Congress and key policy makers for national policies that enhance and foster the contributions the performing arts make to America.