The COVID-19 pandemic has not only forced the cancelation and postponement of countless concerts, it has also caused tremendous uncertainty regarding the participation of international artists in future events.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has denied the requests outlined in detailed comments (PDF) submitted by the League and national nonprofit arts stakeholders in response to the DHS December proposal to impose very steep increases to some of its filing fees, including for O and P artist visas applications. DHS finalized (PDF) its fee increases and policy changes, to take effect beginning October 2, 2020
Some good news, as the League and orchestras join the broader nonprofit sector in seeking increased incentives for the charitable giving that supports communities nationwide: Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mike Lee (R-UT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have introduced the bipartisan Universal Giving Pandemic Response Act (S. 4032) (PDF) to expand the current above-the-line deduction for charitable giving made available by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in March.
This week the President announced an extension through December of his executive order from late April that had, at that time, suspended new immigration for 60 days. Effective immediately, individuals outside the United States who do not currently have an immigrant visa or official travel document other than a visa will be barred entry into the U.S. through December 31, 2020 “and may be continued as necessary” along with the possibility of “any modifications as may be necessary.”
An executive order issuing a Proclamation Suspending Entry of Immigrants was signed by President Trump on April 23, barring the issuance of new green card status for many individuals for a 60-day period.
Orchestras in communities of all sizes frequently engage international guest artists. In the wake of COVID-19, policy solutions are needed as arts organizations and global artists pivot to reschedule planned performances.
The 21% Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT) on parking and commuting benefits that was created by comprehensive tax reform signed into law in December 2017 has now been retroactively repealed.
Many orchestras have received significant new contributions since the IRA Charitable Rollover provision was made permanent in 2015, allowing individuals age 70-1/2 and older to make direct, tax-free transfers of up to $100,000 per year (up to $200,000 for married couples) from their Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) to qualified charities.
The League provides specialized assistance in navigating the complex visa requirements for guest artists.