The bill will create a fund to support the commissioning of works of art in conjunction with new state facilities and, on a discretionary basis, at other public Maryland sites that do not receive new state construction. |
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March 01, 2005-Art advocates must speak out to support the Maryland Public Art Initiative (House Bill 749/Senate Bill 793) in the coming week. A House Appropriations Committee hearing will be held on March 8 at 3 p.m. in the LOWE HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING, 84 College Avenue in Annapolis. The initiative will be taken up as part of Maryland's annual budget process. Call and/or write your State legislators today, and ask them to vote for House Bill 749 / Senate Bill 793! For State legislator contact information of those members serving on the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and on the House Appropriations Committee, access the document available on this Web page.
These companion pieces of legislation (House Bill 749/Senate Bill 793) will create a public art program for Maryland:
- The bill will create a fund to support the commissioning of works of art in conjunction with new state facilities and, on a discretionary basis, at other public Maryland sites that do not receive new state construction.
- The fund will be .5% of the state annual capital budget. Funding of individual projects will be determined by a Public Art Commission to be appointed by the Governor.
- The public art program will be administered by the Maryland State Arts Council.
For a list of delegate sponsors of the bill, as well as phone numbers, mailing addresses and counties of committee members, please access the document available at the bottom of this web page. Arts advocates could also adapt the sample e-mail message/letter below to begin with a personal message:
Dear [Representative/Senator_______]:
[your introduction] Please support H749/SB793-Legislation to create a Public Art Program for Maryland. This public art program will enhance the aesthetic and property value of state facilities and other sites, help to educate our citizens of all ages, beautify the built environment, create our legacy for the future, celebrate our communities, and create a sense of place. Public art will provide a valuable asset for economic development as it enhances the quality of living in, and visitation to Maryland cities and towns.
Thank you. [etc.]
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