Federal Update: What the Reconciliation Bill Means for NAMM Members

July 7, 2025

As Congress moves through a busy summer session, NAMM continues to monitor key developments in federal funding and policy related to music education and the music products industry. Here's what you’ll want to know now, what’s coming next and an update on NAMM’s response.

No Immediate Action on Reconciliation Bill

Congress recently passed a sweeping reconciliation package, and after a thorough review, NAMM has determined that no action is needed from our members at this time. The “One Big Beautiful Bill's” provisions — largely focused on tax relief, immigration enforcement and deficit reduction — do not immediately affect NAMM’s top priorities, which include business compliance, music education and workforce development.  

There is one exception: the extension of certain individual and business tax cuts, which may provide relief for some NAMM member companies and their employees.  

FY25 Federal Education Grants Paused

NAMM is closely monitoring the distribution of FY25 federal education grants. Roughly $6-7 billion in congressionally approved education funds — including critical support under Title I, Title II-A, Title IV-A and other programs — have been frozen by the Trump administration as of late June 2025.

Due to a number of factors, NAMM is not recommending independent action at this time. Instead, we are aligning with national partners to support a coordinated response and will share those details soon.

Note that this action, reportedly due to an administrative review, has triggered confusion and legal questions across the education community. The affected funds were scheduled for release to states on July 1, and their delay has disrupted school district planning, including music and arts education staffing and programming.

The legality of this move is expected to be challenged in court, as education and civil rights groups point to possible violations of the Impoundment Control Act, which prohibits the executive branch from withholding congressionally appropriated funds.

FY26 President’s Budget Proposal: Advocacy Opportunities Ahead

Looking forward, NAMM is preparing for a national advocacy campaign later this month tied to the FY26 federal budget. We anticipate the House Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee will release its version of the bill around July 21, which will provide a clearer picture of what’s included and what’s at risk.

To support timely grassroots advocacy, NAMM will release a special edition of our policy e-newsletter, The Score, shortly after the House bill is available. This edition will include a clear call to action for members to act quickly. NAMM will provide the following:

• A link to the "Find My Member of Congress" tool
• A brief call-to-action summary
• A customizable template letter urging Congress to fund:
  • Title I – funding for disadvantaged schools
  • Title II-A – professional development for educators
  • Title IV-A – well-rounded education, including music
  • The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

Please note that all materials will be finalized after the House bill is released, as funding levels and priorities may shift.

What You Can Do Now

• NAMM encourages members to stay engaged and informed:
• Watch for updates in The Score
• Be prepared to contact your legislators later this month
• Continue supporting local and state-level music education initiatives
• Share your impact stories with us at publicaffairs@namm.org  

NAMM remains committed to protecting and expanding access to music education and will continue working in coordination with national, state and local allies to ensure the voices of our industry are heard.