The Idaho Commission on the Arts issued the following statement on March 16, 2017, regarding the Trump administration’s issuance of its budget proposal.

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This morning, the Trump Administration submitted its first budget request to Congress. The request calls for the elimination of the National Endowment for the Arts in federal fiscal year 2018.

The National Endowment for the Arts is an essential and unflagging partner of the Idaho Commission on the Arts in the delivery of cultural programs and services to Idahoans. Together we expand access to the arts, arts education, and the support of our unique Idaho and American cultural heritage.

The administration’s recommendation is a request to Congress—a statement of fiscal preferences. Presidents use this budget document to highlight long-term goals. Congress, however, has the Constitutional authority to appropriate funds for federal agencies; and the National Endowment for the Arts enjoys significant bi-partisan support in Congress, earned over many years of service to the American people.

We will provide updates as we know more, and will over the coming months, provide information on how Idahoans can help.

–Michael Faison
Executive Director
Idaho Commission on the Arts