Oregon’s cultural tax credit, in use since it was approved by the Legislature in 2002, will sunset at the end of 2013.

The Governor recommended renewal of the tax credit and included the cost to the General Fund in his budget. Two bills to renew the credit, HB 2470 and SB 319, have come before policy committees to determine whether or not the Cultural Trust tax credit is fulfilling its intended public purpose. The discussions have been favorable.

Ultimately, the Joint Committee on Tax Credits will consider the extension of the credit.There is a long way to go before the final gavel falls, but the process so far has been supportive the work of the Cultural Trust, the statewide partners and the Tribal and County Cultural Coalitions across Oregon.

For those who would like to advocate for renewal of the Cultural Trust tax credit, please contact your own legislators with a quick note that expresses your support of the Oregon Cultural Trust and asks for their support for renewal of the Cultural Trust tax credit.

If you need more background information on the Oregon Cultural Trust, go to www.culturaltrust.org If you would like to experience Oregon Culture for yourself, come to Salem for the Cultural Advocacy Coalition’s Capitol Rotunda Concert series. The next, on April 11, features young musicians from Metropolitan Youth Symphony.

For the complete schedule of performances go to www.oregonculture.org Cultural Advocacy Coalition!The Cultural Advocacy Coalition is a coalition of Oregonians and Oregon cultural nonprofits who care about art, heritage and the humanities—and understand the important connections between culture and a vibrant and strong Oregon economy.Information: www.oregonculture.org.

Join us for Advocacy Day 2013

Leaders from communities across Oregon will come together in Salem to advocate for art, heritage, history and the humanities next month! More information coming soon on this free event, but mark your calendars now to join us in Salem on Thursday, April 25, 2013.