| Dear Utah,
Earlier this week, we sent alerts about the key work happening in Congress on funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and on a new proposed funding restriction for military bands. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to write your representatives, who were making these funding decisions this week!
What Happened
- In the Senate, their subcommittee proposed a slight increase of funding for the NEA. Their proposal would boost funds by $500,000 to $148.4 million for Fiscal Year 2017. This is less than the President’s request and less than the House proposal. Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO) spoke positively about the slight increase in his remarks, including NEA’s Healing Arts Partnership work at Walter Reed. During full committee consideration, no changes were made to this funding.
- The House proposal continues to provide funding of nearly $150 million, a $2 million increase from current funding for the NEA. No member offered an amendment to cut funding to the NEA during full committee consideration this week. The House bill passed committee by a vote of 31-18 and may now be considered on the floor later this year. In addition, for the first time, the House proposal includes support for STEAM!
It also includes support for the display of art in government buildings, including postal facilities.
And, unlike last year, there is no prohibition of funding for NEA’s Our Town program, which supports creative placemaking projects all across the country. Americans for the Arts advocated against this funding restriction on this core grant program. Grants have funded all 50 states and many tribal communities, bringing further access to the arts.
 This week also saw consideration of the Defense funding bill in the House. Rep. Martha McSally (R-AZ) offered an amendment to prohibit funds for military bands to perform in an official capacity for certain entertainment purposes and social events. We sent a call to action to oppose this misguided amendment. These musical bands increase understanding, foster a deep appreciation of the rich history and legacy of our services, while bridging and uniting cultural, societal, and socio-economic differences through music. Unfortunately, her amendment passed today on a voice-vote and is now part of the House version of the Defense bill. We will continue to advocate against this harmful provision as the bill advances through the legislative process.
Next Steps
Given the shortened legislative schedule, these bills may not see any further action until after the November elections. We will keep you informed on future action steps to take. Thanks for being an arts advocate and for standing up and speaking out in support of the arts.
|
Utah Cultural Alliance 