As recently reported by The Nerve, a bill that establishes a steady source of funding for the Arts Commission,  S. 1210, has passed through the Senate Education K-12 Subcommittee. The bill is scheduled to be considered by the full Education Committee tomorrow.

“The bill would provide an annual transfer to the Arts Commission of an amount equal to 15 percent of the General Fund portion of state admission tax revenues and require the agency to expend at least 70 percent of funds generated from the admission tax on grants for children’s and community programs.”

While all funding was cut from the agency in the Governor’s Budget, the Arts Commission requested a $3.54 million budget for the year of 2011-2012.

“We need to find a stable way to fund the arts in South Carolina,” Ken May, executive director of the Arts Commission, told the Senate subcommittee.”

Very few agencies have their annual budget written into law in this way; far more essential agencies than the Arts Commission must make a yearly request. Shouldn’t state lawmakers be empowered to deny funding to an agency that they don’t consider a priority?

By South Carolina Policy Council

Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.

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