February 10, 2021

Yesterday, several House committees considered components of the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package currently under consideration in Congress. When the House Education and Labor Committee released its component of the package, we learned that the legislation calls for an emergency supplemental appropriation to the National Endowment for the Arts of $135 million, with 40% to be directed to state arts agencies and regional arts organizations.

We appreciate Congress’s continued support for the Endowment and the arts generally during this trying time. It is important to note that this legislation does not impact funding for fiscal year 2022, the process for which we expect to begin soon.

As the relief bill continues to be considered, we will keep you apprised of any important developments. In the meantime, please contact your members of Congress to make them aware of this proposal, urge their support for this supplemental appropriation and thank them for their continued support of the arts.