TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1900

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1900

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/8/09  
Voted on by Senate
4/17/09  
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the abolition of the Texas cultural endowment fund.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will have significant implications for artists and organizations relying on state funding. By abolishing the cultural endowment fund, the bill redirects the financial resources to the operating fund, where the allocation and disbursement of funds may be more flexible. This could potentially lead to an increase in resources available for artist projects and arts education, as the commission will have a unified fund to manage without the constraints of a separate endowment fund. However, it could also mean a reevaluation of funding priorities and the loss of specific donor-targeted contributions.

Summary

SB1900 proposes the abolition of the Texas cultural endowment fund, asserting a shift in how the state manages its cultural resources. The bill amends various sections of the Government Code related to the Texas Commission on the Arts, specifically removing references to the cultural endowment fund and consolidating the funds under the Texas Commission on the Arts operating fund. The aim is to streamline the allocation of funds for the arts in Texas and eliminate a separate endowment fund that some believe has not been effectively utilized.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SB1900 may reflect a broader debate about the state’s role in funding the arts versus the responsibility of private donations. Critics might argue that abolishing the cultural endowment fund undermines potential targeted donations aimed specifically at fostering cultural projects. Proponents may counter that the change will facilitate greater efficiency and impact, allowing the Texas Commission on the Arts to respond more promptly to the needs of the artistic community. This debate reflects lingering questions about public versus private investment in the arts and the most effective ways to foster creativity within the state.

Companion Bills

TX HB2242

Identical Relating to the abolition of the Texas cultural endowment fund.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1333

Relating to the creation of the Texas state buildings preservation endowment fund, including the transfer to the fund of the unencumbered balances of certain other funds.

TX HB3050

Relating to the creation of the Texas state buildings preservation endowment fund, including the transfer to the fund of the unencumbered balances of certain other funds.

TX SB2505

Relating to the creation of the cultural advancement fund.

TX SB2507

Relating to the creation of the cultural advancement workforce development fund.

TX SB6

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB28

Relating to financial assistance provided and programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board.

TX SB1332

Relating to the provision of funding to the Texas Historical Commission for state historic sites.

TX SB2040

Relating to the continuation and transfer of the regulation of willed body programs to the Texas Funeral Service Commission, the regulation of willed body programs, non-transplant anatomical donation organizations, and anatomical facilities, and the creation of the State Anatomical Advisory Committee; requiring registration; authorizing fees; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB1588

Relating to funding of excess losses and operating expenses of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; authorizing an assessment; authorizing a surcharge.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.