New Hampshire Citizens for the Arts is closely monitoring the State Budget process, and we are able to provide you with the following up-to-date information:

The Governor’s budget for FY11 proposed cuts to the Department of Cultural Resources (DCR) of approximately $247,000, which includes a $10,000 cut to the NH Film and TV office, and a $45,000 cut to the State Arts Council.  These cuts are significant but manageable, according to DCR Commissioner Van McLeod.  However, further cuts to the DCR could be devastating to the department.

The cultural community recognizes that all state departments must share in the cuts during this most challenging economic time, and we believe the cuts to the DCR as proposed by the Governor represent a fair and reasonable contribution to the effort.

The State Budget process will be making its way through the Legislature over the next several weeks. We will continue to follow the situation carefully, and will let you know if we need to take further action.  Watching and waiting appears to be our best strategy for the moment.  We recommend that you do not contact your State Legislators at this time.

Thank you for your support of state funding for these important agencies, both of which are successful engines for economic development, social health, and quality of life in our communities.