In addition to the three primary wins detailed in the previous post, DAA has worked throughout the 2023 legislation session to monitor, support, and align efforts of other partner organizations and other legislation relevant to the creative sector.
Film incentive processes established
- Outcome: Regulations were finalized for the Delaware Motion Picture and Television Development Commission directing procedures be established for the administration and operation of the Entertainment Industry Fund.
- Significance: These regulations include direction on processes for evaluating and approving financial incentives as part of one-time funding ($1M) allocated for film productions in Delaware.
- Partner highlight: Reel Families For Change led efforts to organize advocates and provide feedback on the draft regulations from the perspective of Delaware filmmakers and others working in the creative economy.
Capital and Grant-in-aid-budget bills support arts organizations
- FY24 Bond and Capital budget bill (SB160): Allocates $45M for the Community Reinvestment Fund to be used for community redevelopment, revitalization, and investment capital projects which will improve the economic, cultural, historical, and recreational health of Delaware communities. A complete listing of Fiscal Year 2024 awards from the Community Reinvestment Fund is posted here.
- FY24 Grant-in-aid budget bill (HB197): This appropriation is to support the activities of non-profit organizations which provide services to the citizens of Delaware, listed in the bill, including art organizations. More information on the process is here.
DAA members can schedule time to receive civic engagement training or develop a customized advocacy plan for their individual advocacy goals. (insert link here)
DAA relationship-building on behalf of the sector
Throughout the 2023 legislative session, the Delaware Arts Alliance staff represented the sector in conversations with various agencies and organizations for the purposes of policy, advocacy, and general awareness-raising. We’ve met with Delaware Department of Education, Delaware Division of the Arts, Delaware Division of Small Business, state and local tourism organizations, Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, Delaware League of Local Governments, and various other offices in state, county, and municipal government.