As previously reported, the sub-appropriation committees have completed their work and submitted their prioritized funding requests to the Executive Appropriations Committee. This committee is now tasked with crafting the final state budget, a process that involves significant negotiation and compromise. We are diligently tracking their deliberations, particularly regarding funding for arts and culture, arts education, and related initiatives. We will provide a detailed analysis of the proposed budget as it takes shape.

Bill Updates

SB161: Cultural and Community Engagement Amendments: This bill is currently on the Senate Third Reading Calendar. This is a crucial step in the legislative process, and we are closely monitoring any amendments or floor debates that may occur. We will provide a summary of the final version of the bill and its implications for the arts community once it is finalized.

SB137: Course Choice Empowerment: This bill is currently on the Senate Second Reading Calendar. We are monitoring any potential amendments or discussion during this stage and will continue to track its progress and its potential impact on arts education.

SB102: Public Education Funding Modifications: This bill has been significantly amended and is now SB102 Amendment 4. It is currently on the Senate Second Reading Calendar. We are reassessing its impact on arts education given the changes introduced in Amendment 4 and will provide an updated analysis as soon as possible.

SCR2: Concurrent Resolution Encouraging Practices that Promote Child Independence: This resolution is now heading to the House Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee. We are monitoring its progress in this committee and will provide an update on its potential implications for youth arts programs.

HB267: This bill has passed both the House and Senate and has been sent to the Governor for his signature. We will provide a summary of the final version of the bill and its implications for the arts community once it is enacted.

HJR 8: This House Joint Resolution is currently awaiting committee assignment in the House Rules Committee. We are monitoring its progress and will provide updates as it moves through the process.