SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5163

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.

Title: An act relating to removing the requirement to purchase art for public buildings during the 2009-2011 biennium.

Brief Description: Removing the requirement to purchase art for public buildings during the 2009-2011 biennium.

Sponsors: Senators Hobbs, Schoesler, Berkey, Hewitt, Sheldon, Zarelli, Pflug, Carrell and Roach.

Background: The Legislature established the Art in Public Places Program, administered by the Washington State Arts Commission, in 1974. Works of art acquired through the program become part of the state art collection and are generally displayed within a newly constructed public building or in the community near the building. The program is funded from the state's capital budget through a mandatory, nondeductible allocation of 0.5 percent of original construction costs. All state agencies (including state departments, boards, councils, commissions, and quasi-public corporations), public schools, universities, and colleges must comply with this program.

Summary of Bill: During the 2009 – 2011 biennium, 100 percent of the monies appropriated for the original construction of a state agency, public school, university, or college building may be used for the original construction.