Gov-Elect Patrick Pledges to Restore All Romney 9c Budget Cuts $700,000 to be Restored to the MCC Budget

Dec. 28, 2006

Dear Friends,

$383 million in state spending that had been cut by outgoing Governor Romney using emergency 9c powers will be restored, according to a statement released by Governor-Elect Deval Patrick. Governor Patrick's actions will restore $700,000 to the Massachusetts Cultural Council budget for this fiscal year as well state grants to 72 cultural and heritage organizations.

MAASH organized a targeted letter-writing campaign to the new administration and we thank everyone who helped out. It's clear from the Governor-Elect's statement that our voices were heard.

The following is a portion of the statement released today by Governor-Elect Patrick:

"After a comprehensive review of the current budget and recent revenue performance, I have decided to restore the '9C cuts' in their entirety when I take office next month," Governor-elect Patrick said. "Overwhelmingly, these broad-based cuts, especially coming mid-year, have a serious negative impact on thousands of Massachusetts residents who have planned for the relief and relied upon the services these programs provide."

"Slightly higher-than-expected revenue in November and December is sufficient to sustain my decision to restore those November 9C reductions not already restored by Governor Romney."

MAASH thanks Governor-Elect Patrick for honoring the commitment made to the cultural community and we look forward to working with the new administration.

Sincerely

Dan Hunter