Government Affairs Update: New Resources and FY27 Budget Advocacy

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.

New!  VIDEO:  What Choruses Can and Cannot Do in the Advocacy Space

On Feb 2, Chorus America released a brief video, “Yes, Your Chorus Can Advocate!”  The 7-minute video answers frequently asked questions on the do’s and don’ts for 501c3 organizations related to advocacy, lobbying, "get out the vote" activities, and electioneering.

👉 Watch and save this brief video, here!

Thank you to the Chorus America members that joined our first-ever Advocacy Office Hours yesterday!  The informal conversation was robust and included discussions on advocacy, electioneering, activism, knowing your rights, and more!

Yes!  Invite Elected Officials to Your Events!

Not only are choruses allowed to invite their elected officials to performances, education programs, and rehearsals, but it is a wonderful way to share the value of your art with decision-makers. 

👉 Check out this resource on the gift rules for elected officials, created by the Performing Arts Alliance. 

New!  Strategic Arts Messaging for Today by NASAA

On February 3, the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA) released the 2026 edition of “Strategic Arts Messaging for Today.” NASAA is a 501c3 service organization representing all state and regional arts agencies.  The advocacy messaging offers 6 Core Messages that have been “rigorously tested” for today’s policy environment. 

Whether you are advocating at the local, state, or federal level, NASAA’s strategic arts messaging provides you with key talking points to champion the arts.

• The arts make America stronger.
• The arts support healing for veterans and members of the military.
• The arts celebrate America.
• The arts facilitate good health.
• The arts are beneficial for older adults.
• Students who engage in the arts do better in school and in life.

👉 Read the full report with expanded language for the 6 Core Messages, here.

FY26 Appropriations Almost Complete & FY27 Budget Advocacy Begins

On February 3, the President signed appropriations package H.R. 7148 that includes funding for several government agencies, including the Department of Education and arts education programs. Upon signing the package, the federal government ended a brief shutdown and now has until February 13 to determine funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

With funding for FY26 complete for arts-related issues (and many arts-related agencies and programs funded near level amounts, previously reported here), advocacy for the FY27 Appropriations can begin. The President’s FY27 Budget proposal is expected in the coming weeks, and Congress is already accepting proposals for earmarks and program requests.

As in prior years, Chorus America will track the federal arts appropriations process for the cultural agencies, arts education, cultural exchange programs, and more, and activate its members when strong-unified communications are needed from the field.