Bill filed to abolish Mississippi Arts Commission and move its responsibilities to MDA

Lawmakers propose consolidating arts commission

Legislation to consolidate the state’s art authority, which issues creative grants, has spread anxiety among community leaders who view artists as some of Mississippi’s greatest assets.

Senate Tourism Chairwoman Lydia Chassaniol, R-Winona, has authored a bill to abolish the Mississippi Arts Commission and move its responsibilities to the Mississippi Development Authority, the state agency in charge of economic development and business. Chassaniol, former chairman of the arts commission, indicated conversations with Gov. Phil Bryant and tourism officials prompted her to write the bill.

House Tourism Chairwoman Becky Currie, R-Brookhaven, authored a similar bill in the House.

Clarion Ledger
1/24/17