In the News

MAASH Wins Senate Increase

May 17, 2005

Dear Friends,

The Senate Ways and Means Committee released its proposed FY 06 budget a few hours ago. We are pleased that the Senate leadership--Senate President Robert Travaglini and Chairwoman Therese Murray--supported MAASH's request for a $1.3 million increase to the Massachusetts Cultural Council line items. MAASH met with Senate President Travaglini and Senator Murray to advocate for this higher level of funding for the MCC. The Senators have until Thursday of this week to file amendments. They will begin debate on the budget on Monday, May 23. Barring any amendments, the Senate and House versions of the budget agree on MCC funding. After Senate approval, the MCC line items will be forwarded to the Governor for approval.

The state continues to face structural deficits, so we welcome the increase in funding and the clear recognition of the economic value of the arts, sciences, and humanities by both the House and the Senate. In fact, the Senate Ways and Means Committee made the following comment in its budget description:

"In a state with such deep cultural riches, we are constantly reminded of the economic engine that is fueled by the arts and the important role cultural destinations play in preserving the high quality of life we enjoy here in Massachusetts. The Committee, therefore, recommends strengthening the Massachusetts Cultural Council by increasing funding by $800,000, raising the total to $7.4 million and adding an additional $500,000 to the Cultural Economic Development Grants."

Thank you for your continued advocacy support. Please note that you may be receiving this e-mail even if you are not a member of MAASH. Please contact MAASH at 617-725-0155 to verify that your membership is up to date. Successful cultural advocacy depends on your membership dues and individual contributions.

Sincerely,

Dan Hunter

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