On October 1, 2025, the federal government shut down after Congress failed to pass appropriations bills or a continuing resolution (CR). Even during a shutdown, Congress can still consider legislation—including funding for the arts.
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) remain at risk.
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The Senate Appropriations Committee has approved $207 million each for NEA and NEH in FY26.
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The House Appropriations Committee approved only $135 million, a 35% cut to both agencies.
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Additional amendments could slash funding further—or eliminate it.
Why this matters for New Jersey:
The NEA supports arts education, cultural programming, and jobs across our state—helping New Jersey’s communities thrive both culturally and economically. Cuts of this scale would deeply impact local organizations and the people they serve.
✅ Take Action Today:
Contact your Members of Congress and urge them to support the Senate’s funding level of $207 million for both NEA and NEH in FY26. Personalize your message with stories about how NEA funding benefits your community in New Jersey.
📢 Tell Congress: Protect the NEA and NEH—Protect the Arts in New Jersey.
