SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5217
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 28, 2009
Title: An act relating to expenditures for works of art.
Brief Description: Concerning expenditures for works of art.
Sponsors: Senators Carrell, Hobbs, Pflug, Swecker, Morton, Stevens, King, Schoesler and Hewitt.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Human Services & Corrections: 1/27/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS |
Staff: Kevin Black (786-7747)
Background: State law provides that 0.5 percent of any monies appropriated for the original construction of any public building must be allocated to the Washington State Arts Commission, to be spent for the acquisition of works of art. Monies may also be used by the Washington State Arts Commission for the administration of the visual arts program, and for conservation of the state art collection.
Summary of Bill: No public money may be allocated for or expended upon the placement of works of art in the Special Commitment Center on McNeil Island, secure community transition facilities, and other halfway houses operated by the Department of Social and Health Services to house persons subject to the Community Protection Act of 1990, or any facility operated by the Department of Corrections (DOC).
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: It is difficult to justify placing art in prisons and detention centers in the midst of a budget crisis. Even when the art is placed in the community, it doesn't send a good message because the money is derived from expenditures for offenders and sexually violent predators.
CON: The Art Commission partners with community boards to select public art works which are durable and appropriate for community settings. Public art funded by the construction of the Coyote Ridge Correction Center has revitalized the downtown area of the city of Connell. Artwork comes from capital budget and should not be called a misuse of public funds.
OTHER: The bill language is subject to multiple interpretations. Art funded by construction by the DOC is placed in the community, not in places where it will be enjoyed by inmates.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Carrell, prime sponsor.
CON: Kris Tucker, Arts Commission.
OTHER: David Janson, DOC.