The Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee. Photo by AP/Phil Sears.
In Thursday’s (6/13) Tallahassee Democrat, John Kennedy writes, “Gov. Ron DeSantis’ veto of $32 million in cultural and museum grants and related funding rattled hundreds of organizations across Florida, with critics saying the move damages an almost $3 billion engine of the state’s tourist-powered economy. The veto was among almost $950 million worth of programs and projects slashed by DeSantis, who signed a $116.5 billion state budget Wednesday for the fiscal year beginning July 1. But it also has left some of the 577 arts programs and 33 facilities around the state who lost anticipated dollars scrambling to plug holes…. The state’s own analysis says nonprofit arts and culture organizations generate $2.9 billion in economic activity in Florida. They also create thousands of jobs. The loss of state dollars could threaten the futures of some theaters, museums and county cultural groups…. For some organizations, like Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts or the Sarasota Opera Association, a lost $150,000 in cultural grant state aid may eventually be covered by other funds or donations.” In addition to galleries, museums, and theater troupes, music organizations affected by the cuts include the Florida School Music Association and the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra.
