Leach, Senate Democrats protest proposed cuts to arts funding

Pennsylvania is fighting to save its ever-growing artistic appeal. State Senator Leach, D-Delaware/Montgomery, Senate Democrats and representatives from arts alliances gathered yesterday to object the proposed cuts to arts programs.

Under H.B. 1485 backed by House Republicans, the  up to 70 percent of funding to the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts would be cut, according to a statement released by Leach’s office.

Despite the threat, Leach and Senate Democrats stated they have already found funding to replenish the cuts, in the event the bill is approved. Senate Democrats say their fiscal plan, PA Works, could save the Commonwealth $1.14 billion. H.B. 1485 would cut $6 million from the arts programs.