DEADLINE: Performing Arts Reps Warn House Hearing Not To Let “Creative Infrastructure Of Our Economy Vanish” As Covid Continues But Aid Doesn’t

“The wounds the pandemic inflicted on the arts economy are deep and painful. If we want the industry to return to pre-COVID trends and continue to be an economic engine for local communities, these businesses need more support and investment,” acknowledged committee chair Nydia Velázquez (D-NY). “Investing in the creative economy will help this crucial sector recover while also fueling overall economic growth.”

Sandra Karas, actor and Secretary-Treasurer of Actors’ Equity Association, asked Congress to pass the Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA) that will let performing artists deduct out-of-pocket costs needed to look for work and stay current in the industry from agents and managers fees, to transportation for auditions, maintaining websites, headshots, video reels, which can amount to 20%-30% of gross income.

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