Carter, Houghtaling & McKnight Bill Making $15 Million in Federal Funds Available to Support Arts & Culture Organizations Now Law

(TRENTON) – In an effort to help arts and culture organizations throughout New Jersey that are facing financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency, a bill sponsored by Assembly Democrats Linda Carter, Eric Houghtaling and Angela McKnight providing funding for these organizations was signed into law Thursday.

Subject to the availability of federal funds, $15 million in funds provided to New Jersey in response to the COVID-19 pandemic will be made available to the Economic Development Authority (EDA) so that it can issue grants to struggling arts and culture organizations.

The EDA must allocate $7.5 million in funds to the New Jersey Council on the Arts for the purpose of issuing grants to arts and culture non-profit organizations. The other $7.5 million will be reserved by the EDA for grants to support for-profit arts and culture organizations.

Upon the bill (A-5447) becoming law, Assembly sponsors Carter (D-Middlesex, Somerset, Union), Houghtaling (D-Monmouth) and McKnight (D-Hudson) issued the following joint statement:

“New Jersey prides itself on a rich arts and culture scene, with more than 700 organizations calling our state home. Over the years, our museums, theaters, galleries and music venues have showcased true talent, launched the careers of successful artists, preserved history and provided entertainment to visitors.

“We must show our support now, while many are struggling to remain open, to ensure arts and culture can continue to play an important role in our state. This funding lets us look forward to the unforgettable experiences these organizations will once again provide after the pandemic has ended.”