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Reported covered position: Director of Government Affairs
How to read the money
Income and expense are whole-filing amounts associated with this lobbyist, not personal compensation or an allocated share.
No topic inference: each bill number appears in source LDA issue text assigned to this lobbyist.
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Specific issues are shown only where the LDA source assigned them to this lobbyist. Targets apply to the associated filing.
Engaged in federal advocacy to support sustained and robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) as part of the annual appropriations process, including outreach to executive branch officials and congressional offices to reinforce the agencys role in supporting the national arts infrastructure and creative workforce. Conducted ongoing advocacy related to artist visa and immigration policy, with a focus on persistent processing delays affecting O and P visa categories. Participated in coordinated field-wide efforts to elevate stakeholder concerns, promote greater transparency and predictability in adjudication timelines, and reinforce the need for stable planning assumptions for performing arts organizations. Advanced policy positions supporting charitable giving incentives relevant to nonprofit arts organizations, including engagement around federal tax policy proposals that affect individual and corporate charitable contributions. Emphasized the importance of maintaining broad-based incentives that sustain nonprofit arts organizations and cultural workers. Advocated for the recognition and inclusion of cultural and performing arts organizations within federal emergency preparedness, resilience, and recovery frameworks. Engagement included monitoring and responding to federal agency actions and proposed rules related to disaster assistance, community resilience, and continuity of operations. Maintained nonpartisan civic engagement advocacy consistent with federal guidelines, including promotion of voter participation tools and technical assistance to arts organizations on compliance, messaging boundaries, and best practices for public engagement during federal election cycles. Covered Government Officials Contacted Outreach during the reporting period included meetings and communications with officials from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA); congressional staff affiliated with Republican Senate leadership; and staff from the bipartisan Congressional Arts and Culture Caucus. Additional engagement included staff from relevant House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over appropriations, tax policy, immigration, education, and cultural affairs.
Source: Senate LDA
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Advocated for increased federal investment in the arts through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2026 budget request process, emphasizing the role of dance in workforce development, community wellness, and civic engagement. Supported congressional awareness and uptake of Department of Education guidance on the eligibility of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for arts education, including direct outreach to Hill offices and collaboration with education coalitions to encourage dissemination to local districts and state agencies. Engaged with USCIS and congressional offices to address continued backlogs in O and P artist visa processing, especially during the planning phase for the summer/fall touring season. Promoted budget planning for premium processing and raised concerns about unpredictability and access for nonprofit arts presenters. Tracked early congressional action related to the potential sunsetting of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on the preservation of the itemized charitable deduction and the reinstatement of the non-itemizer deduction to support giving to arts organizations. Continued coalition-based advocacy for equitable federal disaster preparedness and response, including input on implementation strategies tied to FEMAs Individual Assistance rulemaking and funding mechanisms that could include arts and culture entities in federal recovery pipelines. Coordinated with partners to develop a proactive stance on potential executive actions or budget rescissions targeting arts, education, or DEI-related federal programs under the new Congress and administration. Began strategic planning for FY2026 defense advocacy aligned with NEA and cross-sector goals. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): No specific bill numbers yet introduced for FY2026 at time of filing; monitoring appropriations process and relevant tax legislation drafts. Continuing reference to H.R. 3435 / S. 2192 (Charitable Act) from prior sessions. FEMA Docket: FEMA-2024-0001 (implementation stage) Ongoing alignment with Department of Education 2024 guidance on federal fund use for arts education Covered Government Officials Contacted: Staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and key contacts at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Advocated for increased federal investment in the arts through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2026 budget request process, emphasizing the role of dance in workforce development, community wellness, and civic engagement. Supported congressional awareness and uptake of Department of Education guidance on the eligibility of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for arts education, including direct outreach to Hill offices and collaboration with education coalitions to encourage dissemination to local districts and state agencies. Engaged with USCIS and congressional offices to address continued backlogs in O and P artist visa processing, especially during the planning phase for the summer/fall touring season. Promoted budget planning for premium processing and raised concerns about unpredictability and access for nonprofit arts presenters. Tracked early congressional action related to the potential sunsetting of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on the preservation of the itemized charitable deduction and the reinstatement of the non-itemizer deduction to support giving to arts organizations. Continued coalition-based advocacy for equitable federal disaster preparedness and response, including input on implementation strategies tied to FEMAs Individual Assistance rulemaking and funding mechanisms that could include arts and culture entities in federal recovery pipelines. Coordinated with partners to develop a proactive stance on potential executive actions or budget rescissions targeting arts, education, or DEI-related federal programs under the new Congress and administration. Began strategic planning for FY2026 defense advocacy aligned with NEA and cross-sector goals. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): No specific bill numbers yet introduced for FY2026 at time of filing; monitoring appropriations process and relevant tax legislation drafts. Continuing reference to H.R. 3435 / S. 2192 (Charitable Act) from prior sessions. FEMA Docket: FEMA-2024-0001 (implementation stage) Ongoing alignment with Department of Education 2024 guidance on federal fund use for arts education Covered Government Officials Contacted: Staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and key contacts at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Specific Lobbying Issues: Advocated for increased appropriations for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 budget, including testimony and correspondence supporting arts workforce recovery and access. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds to support dance education, based on recent Department of Education guidance confirming eligibility of these funds for arts programming. Engaged with USCIS and congressional staff regarding significant delays in processing O and P artist visas, particularly at the California and Vermont service centers; supported continued access to premium processing and urged increased adjudication capacity. Supported legislative efforts to restore and expand the non-itemizer charitable deduction and preserve the value of itemized deductions for contributions to nonprofit performing arts organizations. Participated in coalitions advocating for access to remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds at the state and local levels for distribution to arts organizations and individual artists. Submitted feedback to FEMA on proposed changes to federal disaster recovery policies, highlighting the need for equitable inclusion of arts and cultural organizations in emergency planning frameworks. Monitored congressional tax reform proposals related to the potential extension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on implications for charitable giving and nonprofit financial stability. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): H.R. 5323: Arts Education for All Act FY2025 Interior Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act (universal charitable deduction) Draft proposals impacting the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 Covered Government Officials Contacted: Members and staff of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and relevant federal agency staff at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Specific Lobbying Issues: Advocated for increased appropriations for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 budget, including testimony and correspondence supporting arts workforce recovery and access. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds to support dance education, based on recent Department of Education guidance confirming eligibility of these funds for arts programming. Engaged with USCIS and congressional staff regarding significant delays in processing O and P artist visas, particularly at the California and Vermont service centers; supported continued access to premium processing and urged increased adjudication capacity. Supported legislative efforts to restore and expand the non-itemizer charitable deduction and preserve the value of itemized deductions for contributions to nonprofit performing arts organizations. Participated in coalitions advocating for access to remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds at the state and local levels for distribution to arts organizations and individual artists. Submitted feedback to FEMA on proposed changes to federal disaster recovery policies, highlighting the need for equitable inclusion of arts and cultural organizations in emergency planning frameworks. Monitored congressional tax reform proposals related to the potential extension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on implications for charitable giving and nonprofit financial stability. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): H.R. 5323: Arts Education for All Act FY2025 Interior Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act (universal charitable deduction) Draft proposals impacting the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 Covered Government Officials Contacted: Members and staff of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and relevant federal agency staff at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Specific Lobbying Issues: Advocated for increased appropriations for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 budget, including testimony and correspondence supporting arts workforce recovery and access. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds to support dance education, based on recent Department of Education guidance confirming eligibility of these funds for arts programming. Engaged with USCIS and congressional staff regarding significant delays in processing O and P artist visas, particularly at the California and Vermont service centers; supported continued access to premium processing and urged increased adjudication capacity. Supported legislative efforts to restore and expand the non-itemizer charitable deduction and preserve the value of itemized deductions for contributions to nonprofit performing arts organizations. Participated in coalitions advocating for access to remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds at the state and local levels for distribution to arts organizations and individual artists. Submitted feedback to FEMA on proposed changes to federal disaster recovery policies, highlighting the need for equitable inclusion of arts and cultural organizations in emergency planning frameworks. Monitored congressional tax reform proposals related to the potential extension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on implications for charitable giving and nonprofit financial stability. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): H.R. 5323: Arts Education for All Act FY2025 Interior Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act (universal charitable deduction) Draft proposals impacting the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 Covered Government Officials Contacted: Members and staff of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and relevant federal agency staff at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Endowment for the Arts, Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE
Engaged in federal advocacy to support sustained and robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) as part of the annual appropriations process, including outreach to executive branch officials and congressional offices to reinforce the agencys role in supporting the national arts infrastructure and creative workforce. Conducted ongoing advocacy related to artist visa and immigration policy, with a focus on persistent processing delays affecting O and P visa categories. Participated in coordinated field-wide efforts to elevate stakeholder concerns, promote greater transparency and predictability in adjudication timelines, and reinforce the need for stable planning assumptions for performing arts organizations. Advanced policy positions supporting charitable giving incentives relevant to nonprofit arts organizations, including engagement around federal tax policy proposals that affect individual and corporate charitable contributions. Emphasized the importance of maintaining broad-based incentives that sustain nonprofit arts organizations and cultural workers. Advocated for the recognition and inclusion of cultural and performing arts organizations within federal emergency preparedness, resilience, and recovery frameworks. Engagement included monitoring and responding to federal agency actions and proposed rules related to disaster assistance, community resilience, and continuity of operations. Maintained nonpartisan civic engagement advocacy consistent with federal guidelines, including promotion of voter participation tools and technical assistance to arts organizations on compliance, messaging boundaries, and best practices for public engagement during federal election cycles. Covered Government Officials Contacted Outreach during the reporting period included meetings and communications with officials from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA); congressional staff affiliated with Republican Senate leadership; and staff from the bipartisan Congressional Arts and Culture Caucus. Additional engagement included staff from relevant House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over appropriations, tax policy, immigration, education, and cultural affairs.
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Endowment for the Arts, Office of Management & Budget (OMB), SENATE
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE
Engaged in federal advocacy to support sustained and robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) as part of the annual appropriations process, including outreach to executive branch officials and congressional offices to reinforce the agencys role in supporting the national arts infrastructure and creative workforce. Conducted ongoing advocacy related to artist visa and immigration policy, with a focus on persistent processing delays affecting O and P visa categories. Participated in coordinated field-wide efforts to elevate stakeholder concerns, promote greater transparency and predictability in adjudication timelines, and reinforce the need for stable planning assumptions for performing arts organizations. Advanced policy positions supporting charitable giving incentives relevant to nonprofit arts organizations, including engagement around federal tax policy proposals that affect individual and corporate charitable contributions. Emphasized the importance of maintaining broad-based incentives that sustain nonprofit arts organizations and cultural workers. Advocated for the recognition and inclusion of cultural and performing arts organizations within federal emergency preparedness, resilience, and recovery frameworks. Engagement included monitoring and responding to federal agency actions and proposed rules related to disaster assistance, community resilience, and continuity of operations. Maintained nonpartisan civic engagement advocacy consistent with federal guidelines, including promotion of voter participation tools and technical assistance to arts organizations on compliance, messaging boundaries, and best practices for public engagement during federal election cycles. Covered Government Officials Contacted Outreach during the reporting period included meetings and communications with officials from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA); congressional staff affiliated with Republican Senate leadership; and staff from the bipartisan Congressional Arts and Culture Caucus. Additional engagement included staff from relevant House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over appropriations, tax policy, immigration, education, and cultural affairs.
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Natl Endowment for the Arts, SENATE
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE
Advocated for increased federal investment in the arts through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2026 budget request process, emphasizing the role of dance in workforce development, community wellness, and civic engagement. Supported congressional awareness and uptake of Department of Education guidance on the eligibility of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for arts education, including direct outreach to Hill offices and collaboration with education coalitions to encourage dissemination to local districts and state agencies. Engaged with USCIS and congressional offices to address continued backlogs in O and P artist visa processing, especially during the planning phase for the summer/fall touring season. Promoted budget planning for premium processing and raised concerns about unpredictability and access for nonprofit arts presenters. Tracked early congressional action related to the potential sunsetting of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on the preservation of the itemized charitable deduction and the reinstatement of the non-itemizer deduction to support giving to arts organizations. Continued coalition-based advocacy for equitable federal disaster preparedness and response, including input on implementation strategies tied to FEMAs Individual Assistance rulemaking and funding mechanisms that could include arts and culture entities in federal recovery pipelines. Coordinated with partners to develop a proactive stance on potential executive actions or budget rescissions targeting arts, education, or DEI-related federal programs under the new Congress and administration. Began strategic planning for FY2026 defense advocacy aligned with NEA and cross-sector goals. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): No specific bill numbers yet introduced for FY2026 at time of filing; monitoring appropriations process and relevant tax legislation drafts. Continuing reference to H.R. 3435 / S. 2192 (Charitable Act) from prior sessions. FEMA Docket: FEMA-2024-0001 (implementation stage) Ongoing alignment with Department of Education 2024 guidance on federal fund use for arts education Covered Government Officials Contacted: Staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and key contacts at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Continued advocacy for robust funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 appropriations process, including briefings and communications supporting the economic and community impact of the dance field. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds for K-12 arts education following updated guidance from the U.S. Department of Education; engaged with congressional education staff to ensure proper implementation and awareness. Addressed ongoing concerns with O and P artist visa processing delays at USCIS service centers; encouraged congressional oversight and administrative improvements to reduce wait times and sustain premium processing availability. Supported provisions in the Charitable Act (H.R. 3435 / S. 2192) and other tax bills that would restore a universal charitable deduction and preserve the full value of charitable gifts for arts and culture donors. Participated in advocacy efforts to safeguard unspent American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for cultural recovery, urging that these funds be directed to nonprofit arts organizations through equitable and transparent state and local processes. Tracked and engaged on early-stage congressional discussions regarding the extension or revision of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, with particular focus on how these changes may impact charitable giving and nonprofit financial operations. Engaged FEMA and congressional staff with public comment submissions regarding proposed disaster recovery rule changes to ensure that arts and cultural organizations are explicitly included in future federal emergency management plans. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): FY2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act Department of Education guidance on the use of federal education funds for arts programming FEMAs proposed rule: Updates to the Individual Assistance Program (Docket ID: FEMA-2024-0001) Covered Government Officials Contacted: Congressional staff from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, Education and the Workforce Committee, Judiciary Committees, and leadership staff from the Senate Cultural Caucus. Also contacted officials at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Specific Lobbying Issues: Advocated for increased appropriations for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the FY2025 budget, including testimony and correspondence supporting arts workforce recovery and access. Promoted use of Title I, Title IV-A, and IDEA funds to support dance education, based on recent Department of Education guidance confirming eligibility of these funds for arts programming. Engaged with USCIS and congressional staff regarding significant delays in processing O and P artist visas, particularly at the California and Vermont service centers; supported continued access to premium processing and urged increased adjudication capacity. Supported legislative efforts to restore and expand the non-itemizer charitable deduction and preserve the value of itemized deductions for contributions to nonprofit performing arts organizations. Participated in coalitions advocating for access to remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds at the state and local levels for distribution to arts organizations and individual artists. Submitted feedback to FEMA on proposed changes to federal disaster recovery policies, highlighting the need for equitable inclusion of arts and cultural organizations in emergency planning frameworks. Monitored congressional tax reform proposals related to the potential extension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions, focusing on implications for charitable giving and nonprofit financial stability. House and Senate Bills Referenced (where applicable): H.R. 5323: Arts Education for All Act FY2025 Interior Appropriations Bill (NEA funding) H.R. 3435 / S. 2192: Charitable Act (universal charitable deduction) Draft proposals impacting the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 Covered Government Officials Contacted: Members and staff of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees, House Education and the Workforce Committee, Senate HELP Committee, Judiciary Committees, and relevant federal agency staff at USCIS, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Education.
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE
Filing targets: Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (BCIS), Education, Dept of, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE