Kansans could soon have the option of donating to the Arts Commission when they file their income taxes. The House has passed a bill to add a check-off on the state income tax form for the arts. There are currently four other check-offs that allow people to donate money to programs like Meals on Wheels and breast cancer research. No one from the Arts Commission spoke in favor of the proposal when the bill was before a House committee. Topeka Democrat Sean Gatewood is concerned that adding the new arts check-off will mean less money for the other programs.
Governor Sam Brownback vetoed funding for the Arts Commission last year. This year, Brownback is proposing $200,000 for a new Creative Industries Commission that would absorb the Arts Commission. The Senate will now consider the bill.