Bill > H3592

This bill establishes the Program for Local Art and Community Engagement Commission (PLACE Commission), a new state-level initiative designed to support public art and cultural development across Massachusetts. The commission will consist of 9 members appointed by various state leaders and organizations, representing artists, community organizations, and government agencies, with an emphasis on geographic diversity. The bill creates a dedicated PLACE Fund that will receive 0.5% of public funds for state building construction or renovation projects, capped at $300,000 per project and adjusted annually for inflation. The Massachusetts Cultural Council will primarily administer the commission, with responsibilities including managing grant applications, providing technical assistance, and supporting the selection, design, creation, and maintenance of public art projects. The commission aims to enhance civic participation, promote cultural diversity, and support local artists by ensuring public art is distributed across different regions of the state. All public art acquired through the fund will be owned by the Commonwealth, and the commission will prioritize Massachusetts artists. The bill mandates an annual report detailing the fund's implementation and requires the commission to be established by December 1, 2026. Members will serve without compensation and be appointed to three-year terms, with limitations on consecutive service.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3592