Update Your Dance/USA Profile To Ensure Staff Receive Advocacy Alerts Dance/USA represents the interests of the national dance community before Congress, the White House and federal agencies. As a founding member of the Performing Arts Alliance (PAA), Dance/USA works with the broader arts field to advocate for the development of national policies that recognize and strengthen the art field’s ability to contribute to American life. All Dance/USA members receive free membership with the Performing Arts Alliance, including PAA Advocacy Updates and Action Alert Emails. Ensure the staff at your organization receives PAA emails! Login to the Dance/USA website and update your organizational profile with the staff contacts at your organization. Updating your organization’s profile with the staff at your organization will not only increase the sharing of advocacy information, but will increase our collective impact on federal arts advocacy issues. Dance/USA Board Member, John Malashock, Advocates for Arts Education John Malashock, member of Dance/USA’s Board of Trustees and founder of Malashock Dance, recently participated in a meeting with Rep. Susan Davis (D-CA) in her home district of San Diego.  Accompanied by arts education advocates from the San Diego Youth Symphony, the San Diego Commission for the Arts and Culture, and the San Diego County Office of Education, the purpose of the meeting was to discuss arts education policy and the need for increased assessments & reporting of arts education.  Click here to view a photo of the advocates with Rep. Davis.  Thank you, John Malashock, for your time and efforts in support of dance and arts education!  Dance/USA Staff Conducts Hill Meetings in Support of Dance On Thursday, July 22, Dance/USA staff and summer interns walked the halls of Congress to speak in support of dance and the nonprofit arts. In most cases, the staff visited offices where they are voting constituents, which included the offices of Sen. Warner (D-VA), Sen. Webb (D-VA), Sen. Cardin (D-MD), and Rep. Edwards (D-MD). All Dance/USA members are encouraged to conduct legislative meetings in their district and when visiting Washington, D.C. Headed to D.C.? Contact Dance/USA’s Government Affairs Office. We will schedule the meetings, prepare you with talking points and accompany you on the meetings. Changes to 1099 Tax Form The health care reform bill enacted in March 2010 expanded the reporting requirements for form 1099. Starting in 2012, nonprofit and for-profit companies will be required to issue tax form 1099 to all companies from which they buy more than $600 in goods or services in a tax year, in addition to independent contractors. According to the National Taxpayer Advocate the new requirements, "may impose significant compliance burdens on businesses, charities and government agencies." According to a Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) analysis, about 40 million businesses and other entities will be subject to the new requirement. The IRS has issued Notice 2010-51, seeking public comment on the new reporting requirement. The deadline to submit comments is September 29, 2010. For more information, click here. National Arts in Education Week On July 26, the House passed H.Res 275, designating the second week of September National Arts in Education Week. Introduced by Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA), the Congressional Resolution declares, “Whereas arts education, comprising a rich array of disciplines including dance, music, theatre, media arts, literature, design, and visual arts, is a core academic subject and an essential element of a complete and balanced education for all students.” To read the complete Resolution, click here. National Dance Day and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC) On July 13, Rep. Norton introduced House Resolution H.R. 1514, for the designation of July 31, 2010 as National Dance Day. The Resolution mentions the First Lady’s initiative, Let’s Move, and the “renewed public interest in dancing as a physical fitness activity.” Dance/USA and Dance/Metro DC participated in the inaugural National Dance Day on the National Mall in Washington, DC. To read the complete Resolution, click here. House Subcommittee Proposes Increase to the National Endowment for the Arts House Interior Appropriations Subcommittee has approved a $2.5 million increase for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), bringing NEA funding to $170 million for FY 2011. Current funding for the agency totals $167.5 million. This is a noteworthy increase given the current discretionary spending freeze in place. Through this increase, Rep. James Moran (D-VA), Chairman of the Subcommittee, has once again demonstrated his commitment in investing in our country's cultural agencies. In his statement to the subcommittee, Chairman Moran noted "the increase recognizes the value we place, as a Nation, on our artistic and cultural heritage." To take action in support of the NEA, visit the Performing Arts Alliance’s NEA advocacy campaign here USCIS Holds Listening Session for O and P Visa Categories On July 20, Dance/USA, as a member of the Performing Arts Visa Working Group, participated in a Listening Session held at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in Washington, DC.  The meeting gave USCIS an opportunity to hear comments and questions from a broad array of stakeholders concerning the adjudication of O and P nonimmigrant visas.  During the meeting, USCIS claimed the Agency is now processing O and P visas within 14 days at both the California Processing Center and the Vermont Processing Center (does not include delays caused by Requests for Further Evidence).  USCIS also encouraged stakeholders to contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center if a petition, which has not received an RFE, takes longer than 14 days for adjudication.  Concerns raised by stakeholders addressed the inconsistent and unreliable adjudication of O and P visas, the unjust Requests for Further Evidence and unjust denials.  USCIS leadership states that they hear the concerns expressed by the arts community and that the Agency is conducting a serious review of the entire O and P visa processing system. Experiencing visa troubles?  Please contact Dance/USA’s Government Affairs Department at advocacy@danceusa.org.  Thank you! Update:  Appropriations for Arts in Education Programs On July 15, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Education held a markup hearing, awarding level funding of $40 million to the Arts in Education Programs at the Department of Education.  As previously reported, the President’s budget request proposes that the Arts in Education Programs be consolidated into a broader, more competitive funding pool entitled, “Effective Teaching and Learning for a Well-Rounded Education.”  At this time, it appears the House Appropriations Subcommittee will not be moving forward with the consolidation proposal.  Dance/USA, as a member of the Arts Education Working Group, has been asking Congress to increase funding to the Arts in Education Programs to $53 million and for the Department of Education to produce comprehensive reports on the status of arts education in America’s public schools.  Click here to view the arts in education issue brief. Arts Skill Map Released at Senate Briefing On July 15, six national arts education associations released an Arts Skills Map for the Partnership for 21s Century Skills, at a Senate briefing hosted by Sen. Harkin (D-IA), chairman of the Senate Health and Education Committee.  The six associations that drafted the document included:  American Alliance for Theatre & Education, the Educational Theatre Association, the National Art Education Association, MENC (the National Music Education Association), the National Dance Association, and the National Dance Education Organization.  To learn more about the Partnership for 21s Century Skills and to view the Arts Skills Map, visit:  http://www.p21.org/documents/P21_arts_map_final.pdf Board Support & Advocacy Efforts A recent article in the Chronicle of Philanthropy discussed the importance of engaging board members in advocacy efforts:  “Charities must educate boards about the link between advocacy and the organizations' mission success, … board members can be a vital resource for gaining access to policy makers and developing relationships with them.”  As most Dance/USA members know, the most powerful arts advocacy begins at the local level.  Does your dance organization engage its board members in advocacy?  Have you considered forming an advocacy committee at the board level?  Your board can be a powerful advocacy resource! Dance Advocacy Network Dance/USA is reinventing our Government Affairs Liaison email list!  The Dance Advocacy Network will become a grassroots network of dance advocates across America. All Dance/USA members are encouraged to participate in the Dance Advocacy Network to increase the sharing of advocacy information, to develop tools and resources available for effective dance advocacy and to inspire other citizens to advocate for this wonderful art form.  To become an official Dance Advocate, join the Dance Advocacy Network when registering or renewing membership online with Dance/USA. USCIS Proposes Fee Increase Dance organizations experiencing difficulty obtaining artist visas have a new opportunity to weigh in with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as the agency proposes an across-the-board fee increase. The USCIS proposes a $5 increase in the fee for the regular I-129 visa processing form (which would bring the fee to $325), and a $225 increase in the Premium Processing fee (bringing the total fee to $1,225). The performing arts community is urging USCIS to immediately make long-overdue improvements to the regular artist visa process and to refrain from increasing the already-unaffordable Premium Processing fee. Comments to USCIS are due by July 26. Dance/USA, as a founding member of the Performing Arts Alliance, will submit detailed comments in collaboration with our national colleagues in the Performing Arts Visa Working Group: American Federation of Musicians, Association of Performing Arts Presenters, OPERA America, League of American Orchestras, North American Performing Arts Managers and Agents and Theatre Communications Group. Visit the following link to access the Action Alert and submit comments to USCIS: http://paa.convio.net/site/MessageViewer?em_id=1221.0 The NEA and Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Hold Webinar on New Notice of Funding Availability On Wednesday, July 7th, 2010, the NEA and U.S. Housing and Urban Development hosted a joint webinar on the recently released Notice of Funding Availability by HUD and the U.S. Department of Transportation.  The Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant Program seeks to improve regional planning efforts for more livable and sustainable communities and consists of two funding categories: The Tiger II/Community Challenge Planning Grant (CCPG) and the Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant. HUD and the NEA are encouraging arts organizations to seek out and participate in the regional consortia (consisting of local governments, metropolitan planning organizations, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations) submitting applications in the community where they are located. To learn more about this new grant program and to decide if applying is right for your organization, visit the HUD website:  www.hud.gov/sustainability/ Temporary Pension Funding Relief On June 25, President Obama signed into law the Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010. In case this legislation affects your dance organization, here are a few highlights:For single employer plans, employers would be given two options to spread out their statutory pension funding obligations. The first option would allow employers to pay back their pension shortfall over 15 years (instead of seven) for any two plans years from 2008 to 2011. The second option would allow employers to make interest-only payments in the two years chosen with the shortfall amortized over the following seven years. For multi-employer plans, plans would be able to spread their 2008 investment losses over 30 years. Multi-employer plans would also be able to choose to smooth (i.e., average) their assets over 10 years (instead of five years). For additional resources, visit: Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010: http://finance.senate.gov/legislation/details/?id=bed977dc-5056-a032-520f-49d7b04df18f National Coordinating Committee For Multi-Employer Plans: http://www.nccmp.org/ Special Report by the American Benefits Council: http://www.americanbenefitscouncil.org/documents/dbfunding-jobspaper103009.pdf Proposed Postal Rate Increase The U.S. Postal Service announced plans to increase all postal rates starting in January 2011. The Alliance of Nonprofit Mailers, a group representing charities and other organizations came out strongly against the proposed increase, stating: "Consumers everywhere will pay more for the letters and packages they need to send; businesses - large and small - will suffer.” Dance/USA, as a founding member of the Performing Arts Alliance, will continue to track postal rate changes for nonprofit organizations. For the full news story, click here. Creative Ways to Use Dance/USA’s Pocket Advocacy As previously reported, Dance/USA introduced the Pocket Advocacy at our Annual Conference in Washington, DC. In addition to using the Pocket Advocacy as a way to strike up conversations on the power of dance, you can copy the advocacy facts into the signature of your email, post them on your organization’s website and share the facts using Twitter and Facebook! Tell us how you are using the Pocket Advocacy by emailing advocacy@danceusa.org! Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (NY-28) Tells the Dance Community, “You Transcend Barriers” On Thursday morning, June 17, Congresswoman Slaughter, co-chair of the Congressional Arts Caucus, travelled to the Ritz-Carlton in Pentagon City to speak to over 400 conference attendees at the Dance/USA Annual Conference.  “Dance, music and art transcend barriers of language, time, and generation, translating cultural differences, breathing life into history, and bridging experiences across cultures,” said Slaughter. “They accomplish the seemingly impossible task of both revealing our differences across the globe, while managing to illuminate all that connects us enriching our lives in ways nothing else can.”  Congresswoman Slaughter leads the annual fight to increase budgets for the arts and humanities. In 2007, she successfully led the fight to increase funding for the National Endowments for the Arts from $124 million in FY07 to $144.7 million in FY08, a $20 million increase.  http://www.louise.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1549:slaughter-tells-national-conference-of-dancers-you-transcend-barriers&catid=91:press-releases-2010&Itemid=141 Dance Advocacy on the Hill During the Dance/USA Conference in Washington, D.C., dance advocates travelled to Capitol Hill to speak in support of dance and the nonprofit arts.  The advocates visited 38 legislative offices in both the House and Senate and discussed the importance of the National Endowment for the Arts, arts education, charitable giving incentives and cultural exchange programs, among other issues.  Congressman Todd Platts (R-PA), co-chair of the Congressional Arts Caucus, kicked-off the afternoon by greeting the dance advocates on the Hill and sharing his support for the arts.  The California constituency met with the Chief of Staff in Speaker Pelosi’s office; the Maryland and Maine constituencies had the honor of speaking directly with their member of Congress; and the New York constituency visited, among many other offices, the office of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY).  From Massachusetts to Washington and from Alabama to Illinois, dance advocates reached out to legislators across the country.  Thank you to all of the dance advocates that volunteered their time during Dance/USA’s Annual Conference to conduct legislative visits.  Your advocacy makes a difference! Let Dance/USA Schedule Legislative Meetings for You! The next time you are headed to Washington, D.C., let Dance/USA’s Government Affairs Department know!  We will schedule hill meetings for you, prepare you with talking points and issue briefs, and accompany you on your meetings!  In addition, we encourage all members to conduct legislative visits in their local communities.  Too often, legislators are only slightly aware of the arts organizations in their districts.  It is important that individuals and dance organizations visit their legislative office to share information on their work, including community partnerships, education programs, numbers of audience served, etc.  We need to help our policy makers fully understand the public value of the dance field. Pocket Advocacy Thanks to our board chair, Paul King, Dance/USA has created wallet-sized advocacy cards on the power of dance.  All attendees to the Dance/USA Annual Conference received Pocket Advocacy cards with their registration materials.  We hope everyone will use the cards to engage in conversations about dance, the power of arts education, the economic impact of the arts and the health benefits of dancing.  For those that were unable to participate in this year’s conference, we have created a webpage with the advocacy facts and research sources!  http://www.danceusa.org/pocket Dance Advocacy Network Dance/USA is reinventing our Government Affairs Liaison email list!  Starting in July 2010, the Dance Advocacy Network will become a grassroots network of dance advocates across America. All Dance/USA members are encouraged to participate in the Dance Advocacy Network to increase the sharing of advocacy information, to develop tools and resources available for effective dance advocacy and to inspire other citizens to advocate for this wonderful art form.  To become an official Dance Advocate, join the Dance Advocacy Network when registering or renewing membership online with Dance/USA. Ann Stock to become Assistance Secretary, Bureau of Educational And Cultural Affairs, State Department The U.S. Senate has confirmed the nomination of Ann Stock for Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs.  Stock’s nomination, as well as more than 100 others, had been stalled for months as a result of “holds” placed on them.  Stock is currently the vice president for Institutional Affairs at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and served as an assistant to President Clinton and his social secretary from 1993 to 1997. Source:  Alliance for International Educational and Cultural Affairs; Washington Post; Foreign Policy Magazine Congresswoman Betty McCollum Introduces Bill on the Nonprofit Community On June 16, Congresswoman McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Nonprofit Sector and Community Solutions Act (H.R.5533) as a vehicle to study how the nonprofit community can work with government more effectively and on improved data collection on the work of nonprofit organizations. Independent Sector strongly endorses the legislation which proposes the creation of a U.S. Council on the Nonprofit Sector and Community Solutions to advise the President and Congress about how the federal government can work more effectively with nonprofits.  To view Independent Sector’s analysis on the legislation, visit http://independentsector.org/nonprofit_sector_and_community_solutions_act Arts Community Submit Comments to Immigration Services On May 11, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services opened a public comment period, inviting feedback regarding a specific area of artist visa processing - the amount of time allowable between multiple engagements in a single visa approval period. Click here to read the draft memo open for public comment.  Dance/USA, in partnership with the national Performing Arts Visa Working Group, submitted comments to USCIS on May 24.  To read the complete comments, click here. IRS Update on the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act (HIRE Act) The Internal Revenue Service has issued the newly revised payroll tax form that most eligible employers can use to claim the special payroll tax exemption that applies to many new workers hired during 2010. Designed to encourage non-profit and for-profit employers to hire and retain new workers, the payroll tax exemption and the related new hire retention credit were created by the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act signed by President Obama on March 18. Employers who hire unemployed workers this year (after Feb. 3, 2010, and before Jan. 1, 2011) may qualify for a 6.2% payroll tax incentive, in effect exempting them from the employer’s share of Social Security tax on wages paid to these workers after March 18. This reduction will have no effect on the employee’s future Social Security benefits. The employee’s 6.2% share of Social Security tax and the employer and employee’s shares of Medicare tax still apply to all wages. In addition, for each qualified employee retained for at least a year whose wages did not significantly decrease in the second half of the year, businesses may claim a new hire retention credit of up to $1,000 per worker on their income tax return. Source: IRS http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=223606,00.html Estate Tax The federal Estate Tax serves as a strong incentive for individuals to donate from their estates to charitable organizations to reduce estate tax liability. The Estate Tax expired on December 31, 2009. Senator Baucus (D-MT), chair of the Senate Finance Committee, believes that the Estate Tax can be reinstated retroactively. And, President Obama has proposed reinstating the Estate Tax at 2009 levels ($3.5 million individual exemption, 45% rate). The Senate continues to debate ways to reinstate the estate tax and proposals are on the table to lower the tax rate and have a higher exemption level (above $3.5 million). For more information and talking points, visit Independent Sector at: http://www.independentsector.org/estate_tax Future of Music Policy Summit On Tuesday, May 25, the Future of Music Coalition hosted their annual Policy Day in Washington, DC. The program included discussions on health care reform for musicians, spectrum issues at the FCC, and music related issues in Congress. Remarks of particular interest were made by FCC General Counsel Austin Schlick on Net Neutrality and advocacy advice for artists by key hill staffers. To watch video excerpts from the panels, visit the Future of Music website at: http://futureofmusic.org/events/dc-policy-day-2010 USCIS Seeks Comments on Draft Policy Memo In response to concerns expressed by Dance/USA and the broader national performing arts community, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has opened a public comment period, inviting feedback regarding a specific area of artist visa processing - the amount of time allowable between multiple engagements in a single visa approval period. Dance/USA, in partnership with the national Performing Arts Visa Working Group, will submit detailed comments to USCIS. To give greater voice to the concerns that opera companies have about the visa process, we encourage you to consider submitting comments on behalf of your organization. If you are interested in submitting comments, please email Dance/USA's Director of Government Affairs, Amy Fitterer, for sample talking points and additional information, afitterer@danceusa.org Dance/USA’s efforts to improve the visa process for guest artists are conducted in close collaboration with our advocacy partners in the Performing Arts Visa Working Group: American Federation of Musicians, Association of Performing Arts Presenters, OPERA America, League of American Orchestras, North American Performing Arts Managers and Agents, Performing Arts Alliance, and Theatre Communications Group, and under the guidance of immigration attorney and www.artistsfromabroad.org author Jonathan Ginsburg. In addition to representing dance companies before USCIS and the White House, we continue to work with Congress to seek a legislative remedy to improve the reliability and efficiency of visa processing. This issue was also included as an advocacy priority during national Arts Advocacy Day, endorsed by dozens of national arts organizations. To view the Draft Policy Memo, visit: http://www.uscis.gov/USCIS/Outreach/Feedback%20Opportunities/Draft%20Memorandum%20for%20Comment/Clarifying_guidance_on%20_0_%20petition.pdf

Senate Holds Oversight Hearing on U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services
On Tuesday, May 11, the Senate Subcommittee on Immigration held an oversight hearing on USCIS. Senator Hatch (R-UT) questioned USCIS Director Mayorkas about O and P visas, the ARTS Act, the increase in Requests for More Evidence and denials of artist visas, and the inconsistent processing at the California Processing Center. Director Mayorkas responded that he is fully aware of the challenges that petitioners are experiencing and he is working to fix the problems. He stated that USCIS is beginning a broad review of the O and P visa processing system. Senator Hatch underscored that the problems surrounding artist visas are hurting the cultural affairs of our country and that his staff receives a lot of work from constituents on this issue. Other subcommittee members at the meeting included Sen. Feinstein (D-CA), Sen. Cornyn (R-TX), Sen. Sessions (R-AL), Sen. Franken (D-MN), and Sen. Leahy (D-VT).

Let’s Move Initiative & Dance
The Let’s Move Initiative, spearheaded by the First Lady Michelle Obama, has released a task force report on Child Obesity. The report discusses nutrition, lifestyle and physical activity. The Boston Ballet’s partnership with local public schools is mentioned as an example of Expanding Learning Time models in Massachusetts. The report also lists dance as a “lifetime activity” that can be offered by schools, programs and after-school activities. To read the report visit: http://www.letsmove.gov/tfco_fullreport_may2010.pdf

To learn more about the Let’s Move initiative, visit: http://letsmove.gov/blog/index_1.html

FY11 Senate Budget Resolution
On April 21, the Senate released their budget resolution summary which adopts a $3.7 trillion budget, and outlines spending priorities for the appropriations process. The budget resolution includes a one-year extension for both the Estate Tax and the IRA Charitable Rollover, which expired on December 31, 2009. It is still unclear if the House will move forward with a formal budget resolution for FY2011.
http://www.independentsector.org/uploads/Policy_PDFs/FY2011ChairmanSummary_042110.pdf

House Appropriations Chairman and Arts Advocate, David Obey (D-WI), Announces Retirement
After serving more than 40 years in Congress, Representative Obey has announced he will be retiring from Congress. In his role as the House Appropriations Chairman, Congressman Obey was a strong advocate for federal support of the arts. During the stimulus debate, he argued in support of the $50 million in NEA stimulus funding: “There are five million people who work in the arts industry. And right now they have 12.5% unemployment—or are you suggesting that somehow if you work in that field, it isn’t real when you lose your job, your mortgage or your health insurance? We’re trying to treat people who work in the arts the same way as anybody else.”

IRS Video on Health Care Reform and Small Business
In addition to the comprehensive IRS site on tax provisions in health care reform, you can now watch IRS videos on YouTube. To watch a web-chat between U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Small Business Administrator Karen Mills, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChZxszgS_1M

NEA’s Open Government Page
The National Endowment for the Arts continues to update its Open Government page in an effort to make the agency's work more transparent. The page includes links to such topics as the NEA webcasts and the Art Works blog. To explore the NEA’s Open Government Page visit: http://www.arts.gov/open/index.html.

Help Dance/USA Advocate for an Improved Visa Processing System
As many of you know, Dance/USA is working in coalition to address the inconsistent and unpredictable nature of visa processing for foreign guest artists. To assist us with our advocacy efforts, we need to hear from you! What RFEs or denials have you received in the last six months? Is this more than usual for your company? You can e-mail Dance/USA’s Government Affairs office at advocacy@danceusa.org and attach a scanned copy of your RFEs and denial notices. It is extremely important that we compile these notices as evidence of unjust or unusual requests for additional evidence.

Performing Arts Alliance Files Comments on Network Neutrality with the FCC
On Monday April 26, the Performing Arts Alliance, of which Dance/USA is a founding member, filed public comments with the FCC in support of net neutrality. Monday April 26 was the FCC deadline for filing Reply Comments in this proceeding. To read the PAA public comments, visit: http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/view?id=7020436972. To learn more about net neutrality, visit the Future of Music at: http://futureofmusic.org/issues/telecommunications-policy/network-neutrality

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offers Webchat on Health Care Reform
On Friday, April 30 at 2:30 PM EST, the Dept of HHS will be offering a webchat to discuss how the Affordable Care Act will hold insurance companies accountable. You can send your questions in advance to healthreform@hhs.gov and watch live at www.hhs.gov/live. HHS will also take questions live from Twitter using handle @HHSGOV. For more information health care reform from HHS, visit: http://www.healthreform.gov/

Tax-Free Employer-Provided Health Coverage Now Available for Children under Age 27
As a result of changes made by the recently enacted Affordable Care Act, health coverage provided for an employee's children under 27 years of age is now generally tax-free to the employee, effective March 30, 2010. The Internal Revenue Service announced today that these changes immediately allow employers with cafeteria plans –– plans that allow employees to choose from a menu of tax-free benefit options and cash or taxable benefits –– to permit employees to begin making pre-tax contributions to pay for this expanded benefit. IRS Notice 2010-38 explains these changes and provides further guidance to employers, employees, health insurers and other interested parties. Source: IRS

Dance/USA Members Participate in Arts Advocacy Day 2010
On April 12 and 13, Dance/USA members Jacqulyn Buglisi (Buglisi Dance Theatre), Rodney Trapp (Dance Theatre of Harlem), Conrhonda Baker (Alabama Dance Council), Olu Yemisi (Olu Yemisi & Company) and Dance/USA board member Wayne Hazzard (Dancers’ Group) traveled to Washington DC to participate in Arts Advocacy Day. In describing his experiences on the hill, Wayne Hazzard noted, "We had great conversations with the staff members of Feinstein, Boxer, Pelosi, Miller and Barbara Lee. The conversations were enthusiastic and yet tempered with caution about the deficit and the President not wanting any increases. No surprise there... I let them know I will be back in June!" Rodney Trapp from Dance Theatre of Harlem also shared his experiences, stating: "This type of grassroots advocacy is so important. I was able to visit with Reps Rangel and Lowey and Senators Gillibrand and Schumer." Thank you to all the Dance/USA members that participated in Arts Advocacy Day!

IRS Resources, Health Care Reform
The IRS has created a website dedicated to the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit included in the health care reform legislation.  Visit the site for frequent updates, a FAQ sheet, and scenarios of how the tax credit applies to different employers.  http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=220809,00.html?portlet=6

IRS Resources, Jobs Legislation
The IRS has created another website dedicated to the HIRE Act enacted on March 18, 2010.  The HIRE Act established two new tax benefits to encourage small business, including nonprofit organizations, to hire and retain new workers.  Visit the site for frequent updates, the latest forms, and an overview of the tax benefits.  http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=220745,00.html

Dance Advocacy on the Hill, June 17, Washington DC
As part of the Dance/USA Annual Conference in Washington DC, conference attendees can choose to participate in Dance Advocacy on the Hill.  The session will bring dance advocates to Capitol Hill to discuss public policies that support dance in America.  Dance/USA staff will schedule the meetings, prepare talking points and materials, and accompany you on the visits.  To participate in Dance Advocacy on the Hill, you must register by April 15^th.  https://www.danceusa.org/EventDetails?EventID=28

NEA Chairman Testifies Before Congress
NEA Chair Rocco Landesman testified before Congress on Tuesday April 13, giving details on his new initiative, Our Town.  The Our Town initiative is set to invest $5 million in 35 communities for projects that put the arts at the center of creating “sustainable, livable communities.”  http://www.arts.gov/news/news10/testimony-advisory.html

Members of the House and Senate, Spring District Work Period
Now is the time to schedule meetings with your members of Congress in their home districts.  Both the House and Senate are currently on spring break!  To contact your legislators, visit:  http://theperformingartsalliance.org/performingarts/home.html

Two New Tax Benefits To Employers who Hire and Retain Unemployed Workers
Two new tax benefits are now available to employers hiring workers who were previously unemployed or only working part time. These provisions are part of the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act enacted into law on March 18 (HR 2847).  Employers who hire unemployed workers this year (after Feb. 3, 2010 and before Jan. 1, 2011) may qualify for a 6.2-percent payroll tax incentive, in effect exempting them from their share of Social Security taxes on wages paid to these workers after March 18, 2010. This reduced tax withholding will have no effect on the employee’s future Social Security benefits, and employers would still need to withhold the employee’s 6.2-percent share of Social Security taxes, as well as income taxes. The employer and employee’s shares of Medicare taxes would also still apply to these wages.
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=220326,00.html

Health Care Reform Legislation
President Obama has signed the health care reconciliation measure (H.R. 4872), completing Congress' work on health care reform.   The first part of health care reform legislation, the  Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), was signed into law on March 23.  Health care reform legislation is estimated to cost $940 billion over ten years and to reduce the federal deficit by $138 billion over the same ten years.  Dance/USA has created a special webpage dedicated to health care reform legislation that will be updated regularly with key provisions and resources. Visit the Dance/USA webpage on health care reform here:  http://www.danceusa.org/healthcarereformlegislation

Congress Urges the State Department to Support Arts Programming
In the FY 2010 appropriations conference report on Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs at the State Department, Congress urged the State Department “to expand exchange programs and activities in the visual arts, performing arts, film, arts education, arts management, and cultural studies.”  The report goes on to say that “the funds for expanding arts programs and activities be awarded on a competitive and transparent basis in accordance with all applicable rules and regulations."  For several years, Dance/USA has advocated through coalition activity for increased cultural exchange opportunities and for increased transparency in how those opportunities are funded.  To view the conference report, visit:  http://docs.house.gov/rules/omni2010/hr3288cr_divf_jes.pdf

Legislative "Asks" for FY 2011
Ever wonder what Dance/USA is advocating for on Capitol Hill?  Each year, as part of the Legislative Planning Committee for Arts Advocacy Day, Dance/USA helps craft legislative issue briefs on a variety of arts policy topics.  All of the updated legislative briefs are now online!  Visit the Dance/USA Arts Advocacy Day website at: http://www.danceusa.org/artsadvocacyday

Arts Education and the Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee has set a speedy timeline for reauthorization of ESEA, formerly known as the No Child Left Behind Act.  Dance/USA, in coalition with the Performing Arts Alliance, is urging Congress to:  Maintain the arts in the definition of core subjects of learning; Improve federal data and research regarding arts education; Require states to annually report the status and condition of arts education; and Improve dissemination of the results of projects funded through the Dept. of Education Arts in Education Programs.  To learn more about the ongoing Senate hearings on Education Reform, visit: http://help.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=45361c35-5056-9502-5deb-a3d743977e08

NEA Presents Live Webcast of Its 169th National Council on the Arts Meeting.
Jazz musician Irvin Mayfield to be sworn in as newest member of council
The National Council on the Arts, the advisory body of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), will meet in a public session on Friday, March 26, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. Members of the public are invited to attend in person or log on to www.arts.gov for a live webcast. The meeting will feature a presentation on the NEA’s research report The Survey of Public Participation in the Arts, and the swearing-in of Irvin Mayfield onto the Council.
http://www.arts.gov/news/news10/NCA-March-2010.html

Nancy Hanks Lecture at the Kennedy Center, April 12
As part of the Arts Advocacy Day activities, the Honorable Joseph P. Riley, Jr. will be giving the Nancy Hanks Lecture at The Kennedy Center on Monday, April 12. Riley is the mayor of Charleston, South Carolina and is considered a leader in the field of urban design. In 2009, he received the National Medal of Arts from President Barack Obama and is the founder of the Mayor’s Institute on City Design. The Nancy Hanks Lecture is free and seating is limited. To reserve a seat, visit http://www.americansforthearts.org/events/2010/aad/nhl2010.asp.

Dance/USA Signs onto Unified Arts Education Statement
Dance/USA, as a member of the Arts in Education Working Group, has signed onto a national statement in support of arts education.  This statement will be shared with every Congressional office and key government agencies and underscores the need for arts education for creating student success in school, work and life.  We encourage you to share this statement with your colleagues, audiences, teachers, public school educators and local policymakers.
http://www.danceusa.org/uploads/Advocacy/UnifiedStatement_2010.pdf

Congressman Jim Moran (D-VA), New Chair of Committee that Oversees NEA Funding
On March 9, Congressman Jim Moran (VA-8) was officially named Chairman of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, which includes the National Endowment for the Arts under its purview. NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman said, "Congressman Moran has a history of strong support for the arts, and we look forward to the same constructive and productive partnership with him that we enjoyed with his predecessor, Congressman Norm Dicks."  http://www.arts.gov/news/news10/moran.html

Investing in Innovation (i3), ARRA Grant Program, Department of Education
The Investing in Innovation grant program is a $650 million education stimulus initiative to promote the “development of path-breaking new ideas, the validation of approaches that have demonstrated promise, and the scale-up of the nation's most successful and proven education innovations.”  Nonprofit organizations and local education agencies are eligible to apply.  The deadline for Notice of Intent to Apply is April 1, 2010.  For more information, visit:  http://www2.ed.gov/programs/innovation/applicant.html

NEA’s Mayors Institute on City Design
In honor of the 25^th Anniversary of the Mayors Institute on City Design, the NEA has announced the NEA Mayor’s Institute on City Design Anniversary Initiative.  This grant program will award a limited number of grants, ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 to local governments that have previously participated in the MICD program and to nonprofit organization, designated by a local government.  To learn more about this initiative, visit:  http://nea.gov/news/news10/micd.html

Nonprofits Make the List of Top Problems for the IRS—But Barely!
Each year, the national taxpayer advocate submits an annual report to Congress listing the most serious problems encountered by taxpayers. This year's report, released December 31, 2009, and available on the IRS Web site, identifies, analyzes, and offers recommendations for resolving 21 problems, and only 1—listed as #20 out of the total of 21—is related to tax-exempt entities.  To read the full article, click here.  Source:  GuideStar

Arts Training for Foreign Service Officers
On Friday, February 12, Dance/USA attended the Foreign Service Institute to observe part of the training for foreign service officers before they move abroad. The traditional curriculum for these officers includes several sessions in presenting American art abroad. Dance/USA, along with several national arts service organizations, has been invited to help strengthen the curriculum for the arts training. Goals of this endeavor include increased contact between American arts organizations and cultural attaches at U.S. embassies abroad and improved education on presenting American art for the foreign service officers.

Highlights of the President's Fiscal 2011 Budget

• Decrease to NEA Funding. The President’s budget proposes $161.3 million for the NEA, a $6 million decrease from the $167.5 million passed by Congress for FY10. In addition to the decrease, the NEA says that $5 million will be allocated toward Chairman Landesman’s new initiative, "Our Town." Read the NEA press release.
• Proposal for a job creation tax credit. This tax credit would provide $5,000 to small nonprofits and small for-profit employers to encourage them to hire new employees and increase wages. The $5,000 tax credit could be used against payroll taxes. Click here for more information.
• Proposed Cap on Itemized Charitable Deductions. The President has once again proposed capping at 28% the tax deductions for individuals and families in the highest tax bracket. This issue is of great concern to the nonprofit arts community. http://philanthropy.com/article/President-Renews-Call-for/63831/

FCC Adopts Rule to Ban Wireless Microphones From 700 MHz Band
On January 15, 2010, the Federal Communications Commission adopted rules to ban wireless microphones (including wireless headsets used backstage) from the 700 MHz band of the broadcast spectrum.  Wireless microphone users have until June 12, 2010 to vacate this area of the spectrum, which will be used by ATT, Verizon and public safety First Responders.  In addition, the FCC Order proposed expanding eligibility for Part 74 licenses to include wireless microphones and the agency is seeking comments on defining parameters for eligibility.  Dance/USA, in coalition with the Performing Arts Alliance, will be participating in the public comment period at the FCC and conducting meeting with the offices of the FCC commissioners.

To comply with the latest FCC rulemaking, dance companies should:

• Identify the 700 MHz wireless audio equipment owned by the dance organization.
• Contact the manufacturer of the 700 MHz audio equipment to see if the audio devices can been re-banded or if the manufacturer is offering any rebates to replace the equipment.
• Cease operation immediately if your organization is contacted by the FCC for causing interference.

Important links:
FCC Website on Wireless Microphones
http://fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones/

FCC Press Release on Adopted Order on 700 MHz Band and Notice of Proposed Rule Making
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-295737A1.pdf

Complete FCC Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-10-16A1.pdf

 
Secretary of Education Speaks Out for Arts Education
As reported by the AP:  “At a dinner during last weekend's Kennedy Center Honors, Education Secretary Arne Duncan said improving arts education will be a key element of his proposed changes in former President George W. Bush's No Child Left Behind law. He said parents, teachers and students all have noticed a "narrowing of the curriculum."

"I'm convinced when students are engaged in the arts, graduation rates go up, dropout rates go down," Duncan said. 
http://wjz.com/local/Obama.drops.cautious.2.1355346.html

Remarks by the President at Reception for Kennedy Center Honorees
"In times of war and sacrifice, the arts -- and these artists —- remind us to sing and to laugh and to live.  In times of plenty, they challenge our conscience and implore us to remember the least among us.  In moments of division or doubt, they compel us to see the common values that we share; the ideals to which we aspire, even if we sometimes fall short.  In days of hardship, they renew our hope that brighter days are still ahead. So let's never forget that art strengthens America.  And that's why we're making sure that America strengthens its arts.  It's why we're reenergizing the National Endowment of the Arts.  That's why we're helping to sustain jobs in arts communities across the country.  It's why we're supporting arts education in our schools, and why Michelle and I have hosted students here at the White House to experience the best of American poetry and music."
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/remarks-president-reception-kennedy-center-honorees

Estate Tax Passes House
On December 3, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4154, the Permanent Estate Tax Relief for Families, Farmers, and Small Businesses Act.  The legislation would permanently extend the estate tax at 2009 levels ($3.5 million, individual exemption).  If not passed by the Senate, the Estate Tax will expire at the end of this year.
http://independentsector.org/programs/gr/estatetax.html

Tax Extender Package Introduced, Includes IRA Rollover
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel (D-NY) introduced December 7 the Tax Extenders Act of 2009 (H.R.4213), and the bill is expected to go to the House floor December 9. The package would extend for one year the IRA charitable rollover, which allows individuals age 70½ and older to donate up to $100,000 from their IRAs tax-free. 

Coming Up Taller Awards, Nominations Due January 29, 2010
The President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (PCAH) is inviting nominations for the 2010 Coming Up Taller Awards. In partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH),  the Coming Up Taller Awards recognize the accomplishments of exceptional arts and humanities after-school and out-of-school programs.  Coming Up Taller finalists receive a $10,000 award, an award plaque, and an invitation to attend the Coming Up Taller Leadership Enhancement Conference in Washington, DC. In addition, the Coming Up Taller awards ceremony is traditionally held in the Fall at the White House, with the awards bestowed by the President’s Committee’s Honorary Chairman, First Lady Michelle Obama.
http://www.pcah.gov/news/cut2010Nominations.htm

President Nominates Ann Stock of the Kennedy Center to the State Department
President Obama announced Friday December 4 his intent to nominate Ann Stock as the Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Department of State.  If approved by the Senate, this could bode well for the Cultural Programs Division at State.  Ann Stock is currently the Vice President of Institutional Affairs at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. From 1993-1997, Ms. Stock was Deputy Assistant to former President Clinton and the Social Secretary at The White House.  Ms. Stock was also Deputy Press Secretary to Vice President Walter F. Mondale during the 1980 Presidential election campaign.
http://www.alliance-exchange.org/policy-monitor/2009/12/07/ann-stock-nominated-assistant-secretary-state-educational-and-cultural-aff

New Congressional Research Report on Nonprofits
The Congressional Research Service released a report (http://independentsector.org/programs/gr/CRS_nonprofit_nov2009.pdf) in late November 2009 that provides a detailed overview of the size and scope of the nonprofit sector; the financing of charities and their revenue structures; and the charitable sector's relationship with government, attempting to assess the cost of the nonprofit sector to the federal and state and local governments. The report, which was prepared at the request of Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN), also analyzes a number of policy proposals that could address issues raised in the report. Source, Independent Sector

Resource on Tax Withholdings for Foreign Guest Artists
Any dance organization that engages and compensates foreign guest artists must withhold taxes from the artist’s income. This often can be a complicated and confusing process. For assistance, the IRS has a publication that includes brief summaries of the U.S. tax treaties with foreign countries. To access the PDF, visit:  http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p901.pdf.

Social Innovation Fund
The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act established three new grant programs including the Social Innovation Fund (SIF). Most of the SIF funds will be awarded to existing intermediary grantmaking institutions through a competitive, peer-reviewed process. These grantmaking institutions will then award subgrants to community nonprofit organizations. Up to 10% of the SIF may go directly to the community nonprofits. Up to 5% of the SIF may be used for research and evaluation.  http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/serveamerica/innovation.asp

Net Neutrality
The Federal Communications Commission is considering whether to allow Internet Service Providers (ISPs), such as AT&T, Comcast and Verizon, to charge increased fees to internet content providers.  The arts community has a vested interest in supporting net neutrality in order for the internet to remain open and affordable to all content providers, including those in the creative industries.  The Future of Music Coalition has put together a website dedicated to this issue:  http://futureofmusic.org/file-comments-fcc-open-internet.  In addition, a news article posted on Miller-McCune in January 2010 offers a helpful overview of the issue.  You can view the news article here.

IRS Launches Form 990 Video Series
The IRS has launched a new case study and video program to help tax-exempt organizations better understand the new Form 990 return that must be filed beginning with the 2008 tax year. The case study developed by the IRS Exempt Organizations Division focuses on a hypothetical organization and includes a set of facts describing organizational and financial aspects of the hypothetical group, and a completed Form 990 based on those facts. A video series walks practitioners through key reporting issues common to most organizations required to file Form 990.  http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=214274,00.html

Dance/USA Supports IRA Charitable Rollover
Dance/USA signed onto a letter by Independent Sector urging Congress to take action and extend the IRA Charitable Rollover provision before it expires at the end of this year. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 reinstated the IRA Charitable Rollover Provision through December 2009, allowing individuals age 70 ½ and older to make charitable gifts from their IRAs tax-free, up to a total of $100,000 per year. On March 2, Congressmen Earl Pomeroy (D-SD) and Wally Herger (R-CA) reintroduced the IRA Charitable Rollover Provision (H.R. 1250), which would make the provision permanent, lower the qualifying age to 50 ½ and older, and remove the $100,000 cap. In the Senate, a companion bill was reintroduced on April 22 (S. 864) by Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND).  http://independentsector.org/programs/gr/IRArollover_SignOnLetter2009.html

NEA receives $12.5 Million Increase
On Tuesday October 27, Congress released an Interior Conference Report with a $12.5 million increase to both the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. The NEA's 2010 fiscal year budget is now $167.5 million, the highest it has been since 1994.  http://www.nea.gov/news/news09/budget.html

Investing in Innovation, Fund Program at the U.S. Dept. of Education (DOE)
As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Department of Education has established the Investing in Innovation fund to support the efforts of local educational agencies(LEAs)and nonprofit organizations that have strong track records of improving student achievement. Secretary Arne Duncan has just released the priorities for this new fund, as can be seen in this link: http://www.ed.gov/legislation/FedRegister/proprule/2009-4/100909a.html. Further, in the DOE’s current issue of its newsletter, The Innovator, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Innovation and Improvement Jim Shelton noted, “I also see us looking to our arts and financial-literary programs for opportunities to push the envelope and really craft solutions that drive a different level of academic achievement and school performance.” Final applications for the Investing in Innovation fund will be released early next year and proposals will be due in spring 2010.  http://www.ed.gov/legislation/FedRegister/proprule/2009-4/100909a.html

President Obama Issues Mandate for National Arts and Humanities Month
“As a people, we have an unlimited capacity for self- expression and personal interpretation. While we may not always agree with what we see or hear, it is our open-mindedness that commends the artistic struggle behind the creation and our curiosity that pursues its vision. This month, we honor this artistic spirit that lives and breathes within every American. Creativity and a thirst for understanding are the fuel that has fed our Nation’s success for centuries, and they will continue to be well into our future.”
http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/2009natarts_prc_rel.pdf

IRS Increases Application Fees for Exempt Organizations
According to recent updates on the IRS website, user fees will increase for all applications for exemption (Forms 1023, 1024, and 1028) postmarked after January 3, 2010.

•$400 for organizations whose gross receipts are $10,000 or less annually over a 4-year period.
•$850 for organizations whose gross receipts exceed $10,000 annually over a 4-year period.
•$3,000 for group exemption letters.
http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=212562,00.html

Future of the Nonprofit Community: An Online Discussion
Independent Sector is challenging people across the nonprofit and philanthropic community to come together to develop transformative ideas that will make our organizations more powerful forces in creating the kind of society we all want.

The ideas and insights that emerge from this challenge are available to all organizations, so each can draw upon the sector’s best thinking to inform its work.
http://independentsector.org/future/

Education Secretary Calls for Reauthorization of Elementary and Secondary Education Act
On September 24, Secretary Duncan at a public meeting at the Department of Education said reauthorization for the K-12 education act should start now. He went on to say:

"Let us build a law that discourages a narrowing of curriculum and promotes a well-rounded education that draws children into sciences and history, languages and the arts in order to build a society distinguished by both intellectual and economic prowess. Our children must be allowed to develop their unique skills, interests, and talents. Let's give them that opportunity."

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) has not been reauthorized since 2002.  To read the Secretary's speech or to learn more, visit:  http://operaamerica.pmailus.com/pmailweb/ct?d=JX6iegJqAAEAAFBjAAM0mA

NEA Awards National Heritage Fellowships
On September 22, the National Endowment for the Arts honored eleven artists from around America with National Heritage Fellowships. Each Fellow represents a unique folk or traditional art. For a complete list of National Heritage Fellowships,click here:  http://operaamerica.pmailus.com/pmailweb/ct?d=JX6iegJqAAEAAEYnAAM0mA

New Leaders Appointed to President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities
President Barack Obama appointed George Stevens, Jr. and Margo Lion to serve as co-chairs of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. To serve as Vice-Chair the President appointed Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell.  http://www.pcah.gov/news/newleaders.htm

Side-by-Side Comparison Chart on the Health Care Proposals
Independent Sector, a national advocacy organization representing the nonprofit field, has been actively tracking and analyzing the health care reform proposals. Follow this link to see a side-by-side comparison chart of the Senate HELP Committee bill, the Senate Finance Chairman's mark, the House Tri-Committee bill and the President's proposals.  http://independentsector.org/programs/gr/HealthCareBillsSidebySide.pdf

Johns Hopkins University Releases Study on Health Care and Nonprofits
"Despite all the recent talk about America's health insurance crisis, one crucial component of this crisis is still being ignored. This is the impact escalating health insurance costs are having on the workers in the nation's fourth largest workforce -- namely, the workforce of America's private nonprofit organizations."  http://www.ccss.jhu.edu/pdfs/LP_Communiques/LP_communique_15healthbenefits.pdf

Sen. Harkin (D-IA) Becomes Chairman of Senate HELP Committee
The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions oversees a broad spectrum of policy issues including arts education and national service. Though it will be difficult to fill the position previously held by Senator Kennedy, Senator Tom Harkin has the reputation of being a strong supporter of education, arts education and national service programs.  http://harkin.senate.gov/index.cfm

Disclosure Website for ARRA Grant Recipients
A new website has been launched for recipients of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to report progress with funded stimulus efforts. Organizations receiving funding from the ARRA will be required to register on the site and provide periodic reports on how they are using their funds. The first report is due on Oct.15 and recipients have until Oct. 1 to register on the website. According to the site, they must meet certain pre-requisites and may need to allow two or more business days for their registration to take effect. The site recommends that recipients start the process as early as possible. For more information, please visit www.federalreporting.gov or www.recovery.gov.

Secretary of Education Strongly Supports Arts Education
Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has released a letter to school officials and community leaders reminding them of the importance of arts education. This letter offers encouragement to education decision makers to find time and funds in the school day to offer a comprehensive, sequential and standards-based arts education.

An excerpt: "At this time when you are making critical and far-reaching budget and program decisions for the upcoming school year, I write to bring your attention to the importance of the arts as a core academic subject and part of a complete education for all students. The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) define the arts as a core subject, and the arts play a significant role in children's development and learning process."

read the full letter

Proposed Arts Funding in Obama’s FY10 Budget
On May 7, President Obama released his proposed budget for FY10.  The Obama administration has proposed funding levels for the following arts-related agencies:

National Endowment for the Arts $161.3 million
National Endowment for the Humanities $171.3 million
Arts in Education Programs, Department of Education $38.1 million
Corporation for National and Community Service $1.149 billion
Institute of Museum and Library Services  $265.5 million

NEA RECOVERY GRANT GUIDELINES RELEASED
http://www.arts.gov/grants/apply/recovery/index.html

This program will be carried out through one-time grants to eligible nonprofit organizations including arts organizations, local arts agencies, statewide assemblies of local arts agencies, arts service organizations, units of state or local government, and a wide range of other organizations that can help advance the goals of the Arts Endowment and this program. Grants will be made either to organizations for their own job preservation projects, or to designated local arts agencies, eligible to subgrant, for subgranting programs to eligible nonprofit organizations (see "Subgranting Funds" below).Direct grant requests may be in the amount of $25,000 or $50,000.  Subgrant requests may be in the amount of $100,000 or $250,000.

FUNDING RESOURCES IN STIMULUS BILL
In addition to the National Endowment for the Arts, arts organizations may benefit from stimulus funds to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Corporation for National and Community Service and Rural Initiatives.  For a list of possible funding sources and helpful links to each program, click here.

ARTS ARE IN THE STIMULUS BILL
On Wednesday, February 11, the conference committee re-instated $50 million in supplemental funding for the National Endowment for the Arts and modified the Coburn Amendment to allow museums, theaters and arts centers to remain eligible for stimulus funds.

On Friday, February 13, the House of Representatives passed the stimulus bill with a vote of 246 to 183. The bill language mandates the $50 million to be awarded in direct grants to arts organizations suffering from cuts in state and philanthropic support to retain jobs with 40% distributed through the 50 state arts agencies and 6 regional arts organizations and 60% in direct grants to arts organizations.

ARTS = JOBS Advertisement
During the flurry of the economic stimulus debate, the Performing Arts Alliance joined with Americans for the Arts to post ads in the Hill political newspapers.  Click here to view and print the Ad.  Help spread the word!  Arts jobs are REAL jobs!

ARTS IN THE ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE
Since December, Dance/USA has been actively collaborating with members of the Cultural Advocacy Group to develop proposals for the arts in the economic stimulus package. The Cultural Advocacy Group includes a broad array of national arts service organizations including all members of the Performing Arts Alliance, the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, Americans for the Arts, American Association of Museums, Association of Art Museum Directors, the National Humanities Alliance and many more organizations.

We are excited to announce that the House bill addresses many of our proposals including a $50 million increase to the National Endowment for the Arts (above annual appropriations). The House Report states 40 percent of the $50 million will be distributed by formula to the state arts agencies and regional arts organizations and 60 percent will be set aside for competitively selected arts projects and activities.

Arts Policy in the New Administration
Over the past few months, senior staff and government affairs directors from sixteen national service organizations, including Dance/USA, have been working to craft bold visions in arts policy for the President-elect transition team. Enjoy reading the arts policy statement for a new administration that addresses the National Endowment for the Arts, Cultural Exchange, Arts Education, National Service and the Arts, Leadership in the Arts and the Arts in the Not-for-Profit Community.

Arts, Humanities, Museums & Libraries
President-elect Barack Obama has appointed Bill Ivey, former chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) during the Clinton years and director of the Curb Center for Cultural Policy at Vanderbilt University, to oversee transitions for the NEA, National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Both Dana Gioia, chair of the NEA, and Bruce Cole, chair of the NEH, have announced they will be stepping down in January 2009.

Congressional Arts Caucus
Representative Todd Platts (R-PA) will be replacing Chris Shays (D-CT) to co-chair the Congressional Arts Caucus with Representative Louise Slaughter (D-NY). Congressman Shays (D-CT), a strong arts advocate, did not win re-election in November.

Federal Communications Commission
Susan Crawford and Kevin Werbach have been appointed to oversee the leadership transitions at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Crawford is a law professor at University of Michigan and a visiting professor at the Yale School of Law. Werbach is an assistant professor at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. The current chair of the FCC, Kevin Martin, has announced he will be stepping down, date to be determined, and FCC Commissioner Deborah Tate has not seen her term renewed. Obama will have at least two leadership positions to fill at the FCC.

American Disabilities Amendments Act of 2008

On September 25, President Bush signed the American Disabilities Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAA). Scheduled to take effect January 1, 2009, the ADAA expands the definition of what constitutes a covered disability and prohibits consideration of mitigation measures (e.g., medication, hearing aids) when determining whether an individual has a disability. According to the law firm Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP: The overarching theme of the ADAA is a desire to expand the protections of the Americans with Disabilities Act to as many individuals as possible. Consequently, courts will be expected to focus less on whether an individual is disabled, and more on whether employers are reasonably accommodating impaired individuals and are refraining from discriminating against them. Therefore, employers must focus on conforming their policies to the requirements of the ADAA, retraining employees involved in assessing employee disabilities, broadening their views of when reasonable accommodations may be required and carefully considering any adverse actions involving employees who now may qualify for protection under the relaxed coverage standards under the ADAA.