Government Affairs Update: OMB Federal Grants Proposal and What We're Monitoring

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. 

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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.

Chorus America Submits Joint Comments on OMB Federal Grants Proposal

On July 13, Chorus America joined Dance/USA, the League of American Orchestras, OPERA America, and Theatre Communications Group in submitting joint comments on OMB's proposed revisions to the federal grantmaking guidelines. Several provisions would introduce significant uncertainty into the federal grantmaking process by creating broad, undefined standards, expanding discretionary authority, and increasing administrative complexity for recipients. 

The proposal has generated extraordinary interest nationwide. More than 496,000 comments have been submitted to OMB, although only 54,000 comments have been posted publicly on Regulations.gov as of July 17.

The proposal has also drawn bipartisan attention on Capitol Hill. Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) called for an extension of the public comment period and raised concerns about increased administrative burden, expanded agency authority to terminate grants, and the potential for executive branch priorities to supersede congressional intent. 

Separately, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI), Appropriations Committee Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), and Budget Committee Ranking Member Jeff Merkley (D-OR), joined by additional Senate Democrats, urged OMB to withdraw the proposal, arguing it would give the Administration sweeping authority to politicize federal grants.

Chorus America will continue working with our coalition partners and Members of Congress to advocate for a transparent, predictable federal grantmaking process. If the rule is finalized substantially as proposed, legal challenges are expected.

Resources

• Chorus America’s joint comments submitted by the national performing arts associations, here. 
• Republican Senator Susan Collins' letter to OMB, here.     
• Democratic Senate leadership letter to OMB, here. 
• Congressional Research Service overview, here.

What We’re Monitoring:

• Form 990 changes to fiscal sponsorship reporting, proposed changes coming soon.
• Congress to vote on continuing resolution to fund the federal government through the midterm elections, read here.
• Updates on the artist visa process and the backlog of petitions for foreign guest artists, read here.

Amy Fitterer is a dynamic leader in association management, government affairs, and the performing arts. She has consulted for OPERA America and Partners in Performance, supporting advocacy and strategic planning efforts. As Executive Director of Dance/USA (2011–2020), she led its transformation into a more equitable and financially strong organization, launching initiatives like Dance/USA Fellowships to Artists. Previously, she directed government affairs for OPERA America and Dance/USA, successfully advocating for arts funding and policy improvements. A former ballet dancer and pianist, Amy holds degrees from Indiana University and Columbia University. She lives in northern Virginia with her family and enjoys dance, music, and fitness.