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Advocates press to keep $3 million annual arts capital mandate; Commerce backs continued support

Capital Budget Subcommittee · February 24, 2026

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Summary

The Maryland Arts Capital Grant Program has a statutory $3 million annual mandate through FY2029; Commerce Secretary Harry Coker and public witnesses urged the committee to fund the program as proposed and noted high applicant demand and impact in rural and small communities.

Advocates and the Commerce secretary asked the subcommittee to preserve funding for the Maryland Arts Capital Grant Program, a state program the General Assembly established in 2021 that requires $3 million annually from FY2024 through FY2029.

"We request respectfully, request that you approve this capital budget allowance as proposed," Commerce Secretary Harry Coker told the subcommittee, describing the program's aim to support nonprofit organizations with operating budgets under $3 million for facility acquisition, renovation, expansion and major repairs.

DLS noted the program received more than 140 eligible applications in its first three fiscal years and MSAC (the Maryland State Arts Council) recommended 34 awards over that period. Nicholas Cohen of Maryland Citizens for the Arts urged a favorable report, saying roughly 23% of applicants received awards and that the program has been transformative for small arts organizations across many counties. Kathy Beachler of the Garrett County Arts Council described how a capital grant stabilized a historic building that serves as a rural arts hub and asked the committee to fully fund the governor's proposed appropriation of $3 million.

DLS recommended concurring with the GO bond authorization for the arts program; the CIP includes FY27 funding but removes the mandate in out years because of budget constraints. Secretary Coker and public witnesses said steady funding is important to preserve geographic equity, cultural venues and local economic benefits tied to arts infrastructure.

The subcommittee received the testimony and did not take an immediate vote; members may use the record to inform their committee report and recommendations.