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SR 1036

SENATE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING MAY 8, 2025, TO BE "ARTS DAY IN RHODE ISLAND"

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 8 co-sponsors

Proclaims May 8, 2025 as Arts Day in Rhode Island to honor the arts' economic and educational impact (3.3% of GDP, ~18,000 jobs) and raise public awareness.

05/08/2025 Senate read and passed
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Bill Summary · SR 1036

Summary: Senate Resolution SR 1036 – "Arts Day in Rhode Island" (May 8, 2025)

Overview

Senate Resolution 1036 proclaims May 8, 2025 as “Arts Day in Rhode Island.” The measure is ceremonial in nature and reflects the General Assembly’s recognition of the arts’ role in community vitality, education, and the economy. As of May 8, 2025, the resolution has been read and passed by the Senate.

Purpose and Intent

  • Acknowledges that arts and culture are embedded in Rhode Island communities and contribute to livability, economic vitality, and enrichment.
  • Highlights the arts as a source of strength, solace, and community connection.
  • Encourages Rhode Islanders to reflect on how arts and culture enhance their lives and the broader role arts and culture play in communities.

Key Provisions

  • Proclaims May 8, 2025 as “Arts Day in Rhode Island.”
  • Directs the Secretary of State to transmit duly certified copies of the resolution to:
    • Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA)
    • Rhode Island Coalition for the Arts

Economic and Educational Rationale (as cited in the resolution)

  • Economic impact: The U.S. BEA reports the Rhode Island arts sector represents about 3.3% of the state's GDP and supports roughly 18,000 jobs.
  • Local economic ripple: Event attendees typically spend about $38 in restaurants, shops, and other local establishments in addition to purchasing tickets.
  • Education: An 11-year study found that students enrolled in arts courses gain an average of one-third of a school day in attendance, translating to about nine additional days of instruction, suggesting arts education can improve attendance and academic performance.

Legislative Context

  • Introduced on May 8, 2025 by Senators Gallo, LaMountain, Bissaillon, Appollonio, Vargas, de la Cruz, DiPalma, E. Morgan, and Sosnowski.
  • Referred to “Recommended for Immediate Consideration.”
  • Status updates: 2025-05-08 — Senate read and passed.

Impact and Stakeholders

  • Primary beneficiaries: RISCA, arts organizations, artists, educators, students, and audiences across Rhode Island.
  • Administrative: The Secretary of State’s office for dissemination; collaboration with RISCA and the Rhode Island Coalition for the Arts.

Type and Implications

  • This is a concurrent/standing resolution (ceremonial) rather than legislation with fiscal or regulatory changes. No new funding or statutory requirements are attached; the measure serves to honor and promote awareness of the arts sector.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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