Us Congress House Bill HB2221

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/30/23

Caption

To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Related Agencies, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Operations and Maintenance for fiscal year 2024.

Impact

The implications of HB2221 may resonate broadly within the cultural and governmental sectors, especially those entities reliant on federal support for the performing arts. By imposing a funding cap, this bill potentially alters the operational scope of the Kennedy Center, which has historically been an icon of arts and culture in the United States. Proponents of the bill argue that fiscal responsibility is paramount, especially in times of increasing budget constraints, thereby in their view, justifying the need for such limits on funding.

Summary

House Bill 2221 proposes a limitation on the availability of funds for the operations and maintenance of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for the fiscal year 2024. The bill sets a specific cap on appropriations for this purpose, which is prescribed at a maximum of $24,490,000. This legislative initiative has been tabled for consideration by the House of Representatives and has been a subject of explication by the introducing members and their supporters.

Contention

Conversely, detractors argue that limiting funds could undermine the mission and operational capabilities of the Kennedy Center, affecting its ability to deliver programs and maintain its facilities. The discussion surrounding HB2221 has brought forth concerns about the long-term impacts on arts funding and support, with critics suggesting that such restrictions threaten the accessibility and quality of arts in the community. Notably, no specific appropriations history or prior funding levels were provided within the excerpts, raising questions about transparency and accountability in government funding for the arts.