Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Budget Update from Texas Commission for the Arts, May 17

Just received via a non-profit arts organization:Burning of the Theatre in Richmond

Texas Commission on the Arts
May 17, 2011
TCA Legislative Update

Late yesterday, the Joint Conference Committee adopted the Senate's version of the budget regarding the Texas Commission on the Arts. This includes a budget of $3.7 million annually (a reduction of approximately 50%) and a 30% staff reduction (down to 12 employees).

The other option under consideration that did not pass was the House version of the budget which would have resulted in the transfer of an additional $3.5 million from TCA to the Department of Aging and Disability Services. Passage of that version of the budget could have resulted in TCA's closure.

Next steps are adoption of a final budget which must then be signed by Governor Rick Perry. Governor Perry has up to three weeks following the end of session on May 30th to veto specific aspects of the budget.

TCA will continue to provide updates on the legislative process. In the meantime, questions should be directed to Gary Gibbs, TCA executive director, at <gary.gibbs@arts.state.tx.us> or Gaye Greever McElwain, TCA director of communications at <gaye@arts.state.tx.us>.


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