From our friends at the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies:
Congress has begun its FY2026 budget deliberations. They will set federal funding levels for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Because the White House “Skinny Budget” recommended elimination of the agency, this work has extra importance this summer. It will take a strong chorus of voices to protect the NEA and sustain the 40% of grant funds that go to states.
OREGON has representation on the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, which plays a key role in formulating the NEA’s budget. The subcommittee is scheduled to do its markups very soon. So this is a crucial moment for the subcommittee to hear from you. Here is NASAA’s request:
Please contact your subcommittee senator (Senator Jeff Merkley) by Sunday, June 22. Communicate the positive impact that federal arts funding has in Oregon—including support for the Oregon Arts Commission—and describe how sustaining the NEA will be beneficial. Focused talking points that highlight the agency’s efficiency, accountability and return on investment can be found here. If you know the senator or someone on their staff, send your letter to those individuals. Otherwise, contact information can be found on the subcommittee roster.