Government Affairs Update: Congressional Arts Caucus, NEA Changes, ADEI-Related Executive Orders and More

As executive actions from the new White House administration are having an increased impact on the choral community, Chorus America is working with government affairs specialist Amy Fitterer to share more frequent and comprehensive updates on government affairs. This is the first in that series. 

The Trump Administration continues its swift efforts to shrink the federal government, cut "wasteful" spending, and eliminate "illegal DEIA" programs. Many of the President’s Executive Orders face legal challenges, while others are already reshaping federal operations. Chorus America is paying close attention to the developments and will continue to represent and support the chorus sector through this very complex time. 

Congressional Arts Caucus Update 

On February 18, Chorus America joined the Cultural Advocacy Group to meet with representatives from Rep. Pingree (D-ME) and Rep. Turner (R-OH), co-chairs of the Congressional Arts Caucus. The Caucus, which advocates for arts-related legislation, including NEA funding, will seek to expand its bipartisan membership this spring.  The Arts Caucus Co-Chairs are curious to learn how the Administration’s actions are impacting specific arts organizations.   

Please complete this form to let us know how the new Administration’s orders are impacting your funding, programs, and activities.  As we collect specific member stories, we can share them (with your permission) with members of the Arts Caucus.  

Changes at the National Endowment for the Arts 

The NEA has updated its guidelines, deadlines, and Assurance of Compliance language to align with the President’s Executive Orders. In a recent webinar on FY26 guidelines, the NEA clarified that all applicants must sign the new Assurance of Compliance, affirming that their programs do not promote "diversity, equity, and inclusion" (DEI) in violation of federal anti-discrimination laws under Executive Order No. 14173. View the webinar recording here. 

DEIA Programs Are Not Illegal, Say 16 State Attorneys General 

On February 13, a coalition of state attorneys general issued Multi-State Guidance Concerning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Employment Initiatives, affirming that DEIA best practices remain legal and that the federal government lacks authority to ban lawful private-sector activities through executive orders.  Read the Multi-State Guidance here. 

Understanding DEIA-Related Executive Orders 

Nonprofit arts organizations face uncertainty as these Executive Orders lack clear definitions of DEIA. With legal challenges ongoing, many in the field are seeking guidance. The following legal resources offer insight: 

• Whiteford Law
• Tenenbaum Law Group
• Arent Fox Schiff 

Chorus America Signs Nonprofit Letter to Congress 

As the 119th Congress debates tax and spending priorities, charitable nonprofits face pivotal policy decisions that could significantly impact their work. Chorus America has signed a nonprofit sector letter urging lawmakers to support policies that strengthen communities and advance the public good. Read the full letter here. 

About Government Affairs at Chorus America 

Chorus America advocates for federal arts policies through coalition efforts with the Cultural Advocacy Group, Performing Arts Alliance, and Charitable Giving Coalition. It is also active with the National Council of Nonprofits, the American Society of Association Executives, and the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies.