Summer Policy Updates and Action Plan

July 27, 2026

In This Issue

• League Joins Comments on Proposed Federal Grant Rules
• New Court and Congressional Action on Visas
• Know Your Bow: Next Steps in Conservation
• August Checklist: Meetings and Messages

League Joins Comments on Proposed Federal Grant Rules

As reported in our previous Update, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released proposed rules that will transform how federally funded projects are solicited, managed, and reported. The League partnered with coalition colleagues to analyze and comment on the proposals, which, if approved, would go into effect with awards made or amended on or after October 1, 2026 for most federal funding streams. The League is coordinating closely with others in the broader arts and nonprofit sectors and will keep orchestras informed about further action.

New Court and Congressional Action on Visas

A federal district court in Rhode Island has ordered U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to resume processing petitions filed for foreign nationals from countries subject to U.S. travel bans. As noted in a June 12 USCIS announcement, USCIS will follow the order and process petitions as if the hold is no longer in effect, pending further court action. The League’s Artists from Abroad website provides more detail for those awaiting action on related visa petitions.

Meanwhile, a bipartisan House letter, led by Representatives Teresa Leger-Fernandez (D-NM) and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) has been delivered to USCIS, expressing concern over the extreme delays in processing all guest artist visa applications that are not filed through the costly Premium Processing service. Thanks to our partners and orchestra members for continued advocacy! Orchestras can access the League’s visa services for assistance.

Know Your Bow: Next Steps in Conservation

The wood long used for creating musical instruments is the subject of continued international policy discussions, and action by the music sector is key to supporting sustainability efforts. The League participated in policy discussions in Geneva, Switzerland last week as Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora considered new paths for confirming that the wood used in bows for stringed instruments is legally harvested and sustainably grown. Learn the basics in the League’s Know Your Bow guide. As permit procedures continue to change for material regulated under CITES, like ivory and tortoiseshell, internationally touring orchestras are encouraged to reach out to the League’s policy team for the latest information.

August Checklist: Meetings and Messages

The August recess for Congress is right around the corner–have you made plans to touch base while your federally elected officials are home? The League’s Key Advocacy Updates capture top policy asks, our Calendar of Opportunities notes when members of Congress will be at home and provides some easy entry-points for conversation, and our guide to public policy advocacy has tips to help with Playing Your Part. As you shape advocacy messages, check out the League’s latest Orchestras at a Glance, updated to reflect 2024-25 data that conveys the artistry and partnerships orchestras generate in communities nationwide. Once you’ve met with your elected officials, please share any insights with your League Washington D.C. advocacy team!