2009 - 2010 Budget Cuts

Impact of the State Budget Cuts on the Virginia Commission for the Arts

Governor Kaine has released his budget reduction plan for the 2009-2010 year. Virginia state government continues to face significant financial challenges as a result of the economy. The Commission grant funds will be reduced by slightly more than 15%, effective immediately.

The Commission awards 90% of its grant funds in June and pays more than 85% in the first month of the fiscal year. As a result, although the Commission board and staff would like to make this spending reduction without affecting grants that have already been awarded, it is not possible.

The Commission is taking the following actions immediately:

1) The second payments on the 2009-2010 General Operating Support Grants, Projects Grants, and Services to the Field Grants and Artist Residency Grants are cancelled.

2) The 2009-2010 Teacher Incentive Grant program has been cancelled.

3) The 2009-2010 Artist Fellowships are cancelled.

4) No further grants will be awarded for Writers in Virginia in 2009-2010.

5) There will be no wait list funds for the Performing Arts Touring Assistance Program in 2009-2010.

6) 2009-2010 Technical Assistance Grants have been cancelled.

7) 2009-2010 Technology Enhancement Grants have been cancelled.

The Art Works for Virginia conference will take place in Richmond as planned on January 26-28, 2010. Registration information will be distributed later this fall.