The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 requires public accommodations, including performing arts venues, to be accessible to individuals with disabilities, covering physical access, communication, and program accessibility. [ADA.gov]. They should have effective communication, including accessible formats and auxiliary aids and services, unless it would result in an undue burden or fundamental alteration, and include accessible websites and online platforms for ticketing and information [ADA.gov]. Under Title III, private entities that own, lease, or operate places of public accommodation are required to remove architectural barriers where it is readily achievable to do so [ADA.gov]. Accessibility is also important for digital assets; all electronic and information technology must be accessible to people with disabilities [ADA.gov]. Further details are available from the US Department of Justice [ADA.gov]. Compliance involves implementing accessibility measures in facilities, websites, and services, ensuring equal access for individuals with disabilities [ADA.gov]. The ADA applies to a broad range of businesses and organizations, including theaters, concert halls, and other places of exhibition or entertainment [ADA.gov]. Penalties for non-compliance can include fines and legal action [ADA.gov]. They should provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, and captioning, to ensure effective communication with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing [ADA.gov]. Arts Iowa may consult with individuals with disabilities or disability advocacy groups to determine the most appropriate auxiliary aids and services [ADA.gov]. Arts Iowa's websites and mobile apps should adhere to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure they are accessible to individuals with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments [ADA.gov]. This includes providing alternative text for images, captions for videos, and keyboard navigation [ADA.gov]. If the accessibility standards are not met, customers and employees can bring a private lawsuit in federal court against a business that violates the ADA [ADA.gov]. US Department of Justice can also bring enforcement actions [ADA.gov]. Arts Iowa should document its efforts to comply with the ADA, including accessibility audits, policy updates, and staff training [ADA.gov]. This documentation can be useful in defending against potential ADA claims [ADA.gov]. Arts Iowa should conduct regular accessibility audits of its physical facilities and digital assets to identify and address any barriers to accessibility [ADA.gov].

Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code outlines the requirements for non-profit organizations, including Arts Iowa, to maintain their tax-exempt status, focusing on purpose, activities, and financial practices [IRS.gov]. They must operate exclusively for exempt purposes, such as charitable, educational, or artistic endeavors, and should avoid activities that primarily benefit private interests [IRS.gov]. Also, they must avoid political campaign activities and excessive lobbying [IRS.gov]. To maintain its 501(c)(3) status, Arts Iowa must adhere to strict financial and operational guidelines, including proper record-keeping, transparent financial reporting, and avoidance of private benefit. [IRS.gov]. Non-compliance can result in penalties, loss of tax-exempt status, and legal repercussions [IRS.gov]. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties, including fines, loss of tax-exempt status, and potential legal action [IRS.gov]. Organizations must file an annual Form 990 with the IRS, providing detailed information about their finances, activities, and governance. [IRS.gov]. Contributions to 501(c)(3) organizations are tax-deductible for donors, incentivizing charitable giving and supporting the organization's mission [IRS.gov]. It is also important to maintain detailed records of all donations, grants, and other income, as well as expenses, assets, and liabilities [IRS.gov]. Maintain a conflict of interest policy to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the organization, rather than for the personal gain of board members, staff, or their families [IRS.gov]. All of these measures promote accountability and transparency [IRS.gov]. Arts Iowa should conduct regular reviews of its compliance with 501(c)(3) regulations, seeking guidance from legal and financial professionals as needed [IRS.gov]. Proper governance and oversight help ensure that the organization operates ethically and effectively, furthering its mission and maintaining its reputation [IRS.gov].

Consumer protection laws, such as those enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States, aim to prevent deceptive and unfair business practices, including false advertising and misleading marketing claims [FTC.gov]. This includes ensuring that all marketing and advertising claims are truthful, substantiated, and not misleading to consumers, especially regarding ticket pricing, event details, and accessibility information [FTC.gov]. They should clearly and conspicuously disclose all material terms and conditions, such as ticket fees, refund policies, and age restrictions, to avoid deceiving or misleading consumers [FTC.gov]. Compliance involves implementing policies and procedures to ensure accuracy and transparency in all marketing materials, providing clear disclosures, and avoiding deceptive pricing tactics [FTC.gov]. Arts Iowa should also avoid making unsubstantiated claims about the quality or benefits of its performances, and only make claims that are supported by evidence [FTC.gov]. Failure to comply with consumer protection laws can result in legal action, fines, and reputational damage [FTC.gov]. The FTC provides guidance on advertising and marketing practices to help businesses comply with the law [FTC.gov]. Penalties for violating consumer protection laws can be severe, including fines, injunctions, and requirements to provide restitution to consumers [FTC.gov]. Arts Iowa should monitor its advertising and marketing materials to ensure ongoing compliance with consumer protection laws [FTC.gov]. Arts Iowa's staff should be trained on consumer protection laws and best practices to ensure they understand their obligations and can avoid making deceptive or misleading claims [FTC.gov].