INDIANAPOLIS–On Monday, State Senator Tim Lanane (D-Anderson) proposed an amendment to House Bill (HB) 1001, the state’s two-year budget. Sen. Lanane’s amendment sought to restore funding to the Art’s Commission which received cuts in the House of Representatives.

“When determining the budget for the next two years, we cannot forget the importance of providing support for the arts,” Sen. Lanane said. “There are Hoosiers in the arts who rely entirely on their work to provide for themselves and their families, and these individuals continue to be negatively affected by COVID-19. At a time when the supermajority continues to grant tens of millions of dollars in tax cuts for corporations, they should not be proposing funding cuts to the arts and for artists who are struggling. This is a clear misplacement of priorities. Individuals in all disciplines have been hurt by this virus, and I offered this amendment to support the talented Hoosier artists that enrich our community and who I know are having a hard time right now.

“The arts serve our community not only as a way of creative expression, but as a chance to understand each other and our differences. Throughout these difficult times, the arts have remained a beacon of light for many Hoosiers, and providing the Art’s Commission with adequate funding will ensure that artists receive the support they need to continue creating and thriving in our communities.”

While the Senate did not vote on Sen. Lanane’s amendment, he will continue advocating for the restoration of funding for the Art’s Commission in conference committee.