BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                     H.B. 2208

79R8259 MTB-D                                                                                            By: Phillips (Zaffirini)

Government Organization

5/4/2005

Engrossed

AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Art and culture have played an integral role in the rich history of our state and continue to do so.  In addition to being part of our heritage, cultural attractions are important to our economy.  Recent studies indicate that cultural arts account for $192.2 billion in total expenditures, when contributions to all sectors of the economy are considered.  This results in $98.4 billion in gross product, $61.7 billion in personal income, and 1.918 million permanent jobs. 

When considered strictly in its traditional sense, such as the visual, literary, media, and performing arts, the effects of art are as follows:  $63.7 billion in total expenditures; $31.5 billion in gross product; $18.7 billion in personal income; and over 600,000 permanent jobs.  As traditionally measured, the cultural arts are responsible for about 19.8 percent of the total tourism in the state.

Throughout Texas, communities have made efforts to cultivate areas dedicated to culture and art.  Such areas provide distinct opportunities for education, recreation, and tourism.  Currently, there is no state designation or recognition of areas that have formed and promoted cultural and arts districts.

H.B. 2208 gives the Texas Commission on the Arts the authority to establish criteria for culture and arts districts.  Such criteria would be used to designate cultural arts districts across the state, thereby assisting communities in promoting their cultural and artistic assets, and providing in-state and out-of-state visitors a guide for a great cultural experience.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Subchapter B, Chapter 444, Government Code, by adding Section 444.031, as follows:

Sec. 444.031.  CULTURAL AND FINE ARTS DISTRICT PROGRAM.  (a)  Requires the Texas Commission on the Arts (commission) to develop a cultural and fine arts district program to designate districts that significantly contribute to the culture and fine arts of this state.

(b)  Requires the commission to develop eligibility criteria for a designation under this section and procedures to administer the program created under this section.

SECTION 2.  Effective date: September 1, 2005.