Massachusetts Artists Leaders Coalition

Artists leaders and artist-run groups addressing policy issues that affect artists in Massachusetts

NEA Update: House Appropriations Committee Approves $145m for FY 2018

Advocacy news via the Americans for the Arts’ Arts Action News:

July 18, 2018

Late tonight, the full House Appropriations Committee met and approved funding for the National Endowment for the Arts at $145 million for FY 2018. While we’re still gathering details of the meeting, this completes the U.S. House committee consideration and advances the proposal to a possible action on the U.S. House floor in the coming weeks.

Although we are disappointed by this proposed $5 million (cut from $150 million in FY 2017), we are encouraged that it is not the termination proposal sought by the Administration since March. This House proposal falls short of the funding requested by a record bipartisan group of 154 members of Congress of $155 million. Similar to the request made by members in the House, 40 Senators requested NEA funding of at least $150 million for FY 2018.

NEA funding sceencap
The accompanying U.S. House report notes the “broad bipartisan support” of NEA’s participation in the National Initiative for Arts & Health in the Military, led by Americans for the Arts. Be sure to check out the NEA’s Creative Forces for more information about that specific program also referenced in the report.

What happens next?
Now, members of Congress are discussing how to continue work to pass these proposals before funding runs out at the end of September. Still to come is the U.S. Senate’s proposal expected after Labor Day. With your help, we are asking the U.S. Senate to meet the request of $155 million for both Endowments. Take 2 minutes now to contact your U.S. Senators by using our easy, customizable form. Click here.

In addition, your elected representatives will be in their home states leading up to Labor Day. August is a great time to see them in your local offices at home. Use our easy Advocacy Toolkit to request meetings and equip yourself with all the latest information that can help make the case.

ICYMI, check out Americans for the Arts President & CEO Bob Lynch’s statement following the approval by the U.S. House subcommittee.

Want to do more? Help us continue this important work by also becoming an official member of the Arts Action Fund. If you are not already a member, play your part by joining the Arts Action Fund today – it’s free and easy to join.

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