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6/7/2024
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Carson’s cultural economy bond question included in budget bill approved by House today
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 STATE HOUSE – The 2025 state budget bill approved by the House of Representatives today includes a proposal submitted by Rep. Lauren H. Carson to seek voter approval in November of a “cultural economy” bond.
The $10 million bond question will provide funds for infrastructure advancing arts and culture in Rhode Island, including $2 million to support Newport Contemporary Ballet’s efforts to construct Newport’s Center for Arts, Dance & Education.
“The cultural economy is an important part of our economic landscape, employing Rhode Islanders, making our state attractive to visitors and contributing immeasurably to our quality of life. The arts and culture of Rhode Island are a major part of who we are, and what makes our state a unique, interesting and worthwhile place,” said Representative Carson (D-Dist. 75, Newport). “Many of our cultural institutions suffered permanently from the pandemic shutdown, and few, if any, received the financial assistance that helped other sectors bounce back. This bond, if approved by voters, would help our arts and cultural institutions with some major infrastructure projects that will ensure they can thrive well into the future.”
If voters approve the question, beside the $2 million for Newport Contemporary Ballet, the bond would provide $2 million for Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, $2 million toward the construction of a new facility for the Tomaquag Museum at the University of Rhode Island’s Kingston campus, and another $4 million that would go to the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts to distribute to arts organizations for infrastructure projects.
Representative Carson introduced the proposed bond question in February as separate legislation (2024-H 7770), which the House Finance Committee incorporated into the budget bill (2024-H 7225Aaa). The budget bill was approved by the House today, and now goes to the Senate.
For more information, contact:
Meredyth R. Whitty, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-1923
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