KELLEE EDUSEI

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.