BILL ANALYSIS
By: Phillips
Culture, Recreation, & Tourism
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
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 its 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% 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 would give 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
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Creates the Cultural and Fine Arts District Program whereby the Texas Commission on the Arts (commission) may designate districts that significantly contribute to the culture and fine arts of this state. Charges the commission with determining eligibility criteria for districts and procedures to implement the program.
SECTION 2. Effective Date. September 1, 2005
EFFECTIVE DATE
September 1, 2005