President Obama Proposes $154 Million for NEA

President Barack Obama's proposed budget includes an increase in National Endowment for the Arts funding.

According to Variety, "Obama has proposed $154 million for the National Endowment for the Arts, up from $146 million in 2012. The figure includes a $6.7 million increase in grants, with $2.7 million going to state arts organizations and $4 million to nonprofits organizations across the country. The figure also includes $3 million for the expenses that will be incurred when the NEA moves from the Old Post Office Building, slated for renovation. The agency also said that it will cut administrative and program support expenses by $1.5 million."

An independent agency of the federal government, the National Endowment for the Arts advances artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman said, "NEA research shows that three out of four Americans participate in the arts. The diverse, innovative, and exceptional projects funded in this round will ensure that Americans around the country continue to have the opportunity to experience and participate in the arts."

The National Endowment for the Arts was established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government. To date, the NEA has awarded more than $4 billion to support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. The NEA extends its work through partnerships with state arts agencies, local leaders, other federal agencies, and the philanthropic sector. To join the discussion on how art works, visit the NEA at www.arts.gov.