As lawmakers in the House and Senate debate the GOP tax bill, some non-profits in Middle Tennessee have kept a close watch on the vote.
At the Nashville Children’s Theatre, some are worried about how the bill could impact the people who make donations, and the amount of money coming in to local organizations. Around 30 perccent of the theatre’s annual budget is made up of donations, and if less money comes in, shows and services could be impacted.
In an email sent to trustees, advisors and staff, the Nashville Children’s Theatre said: “The bill doubles the standard deduction, which will lead to a significant decline in the number of taxpayers who itemize. The ability to itemize is a driving force for charitable giving. It’s expected that charitable contributions could decrease by $12–20 billion next year.”
Managing Director of the theatre, Noah Spiegel said he was concerned the bill would remove a lot of the motivation for people to donate money.
“It could be devastating,” said Spiegel. “Not just for the Children’s Theatre, but for Davidson County at large. It is a potential hit for jobs, for non-profits, and the people we serve in this community.”
Spiegel said the theatre hopes regular donor remember tax incentives aren’t the only reasons to donate to a non-profit.
“We’re hoping people will connect to their organization of choice and continue to give generously. A lot of the services they rely on come from people who make charitable donations.”
The theatre also asked supporters to consider reaching out to lawmakers to discuss their concerns.
The Nashville Children’s Theatre is the oldest professional children’s theater in the United States.
