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Proposed House Budget Increases MCC to $10.2 million

April 11, 2006

Yesterday, (April 10) the House Ways and Means Committee released its proposed FY 07 budget increasing state cultural funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) to $10,243,526.  This would be a $3 million increase over Governor Romney’s proposed FY 07 budget.  The proposed House budget directs substantial funding to municipal aid to assist hard-pressed cities and towns and also dramatically increases funding for the School Building Assistance Authority to help build new schools throughout the state.

The MCC was one of the few state agencies to receive an increase over last year’s budget.  Since the 62 percent budget cut in 2002, MCC funding has risen by 32 percent.  This proposed FY 07 increase of $600,000 over FY 06 is a 6 percent increase over FY 06.

The House will debate the proposal during the week of April 24, with the Senate scheduled to release its budget in May. The two chambers must then agree on a final spending plan before sending to the Governor for final approval.

MAASH welcomes this increase in state funding because investment in arts and culture will help generate revenue for the state.  The House recognized the value of cultural economic development by restoring the John and Abigail Adams Cultural Economic Development fund that the Governor had designated for elimination.  We must continue to use every available economic development tool in restore jobs and support our communities.

Sincerely,

Dan Hunter

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