CreativeOhio opposes proposed federal grant rule changes that could increase uncertainty for nonprofits and impact Ohio arts organizations.

CreativeOhio has submitted a public comment opposing the U.S. Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) proposed changes to the Uniform Guidance for Federal Assistance, the rules that govern how federal grants are administered.

The proposed revisions would largely codify administrative actions taken through executive orders and initiatives implemented by the Trump administration last year. While presented as administrative updates, nonprofit leaders warn the changes could significantly alter how federal grants are awarded, managed and terminated.

What’s at Stake

According to the National Council of Nonprofits, the proposed rule changes could:

• Increase federal discretion to delay, suspend or terminate grant funding.
• Expand administrative and compliance requirements for grant recipients.
• Reduce longstanding protections that provide consistency and fairness in federal grantmaking.
• Create additional uncertainty for nonprofits that depend on federal funding to serve their communities.

These changes could have significant implications for Ohio’s arts and culture organizations, many of which apply for federal support to deliver programs, preserve cultural assets and strengthen local economies.

Speaking Up for Ohio’s Creative Sector

OMB was required to publish the proposed rule changes for public comment before they could be finalized. During that process, CreativeOhio submitted comments on behalf of Ohio’s creative sector outlining our concerns about the proposal and its potential impacts on arts organizations across the state.

The public comment period closed on July 13, with nearly 500,000 comments submitted nationwide. Advocacy efforts continue as organizations work with Congress and federal policymakers to oppose the changes and encourage protections for nonprofit grant recipients.

Learn More

Read CreativeOhio’s public comment to learn more about our position, and explore the National Council of Nonprofits’ summary of the proposed changes and their potential impact on nonprofit organizations.