A controversial tax on art and cultural institutions was one of two proposals rejected last night by House Democrats.
Gov. Edward Rendell and other state lawmakers first proposed the tax on Sept.18.
The plan was to raise over $100 million in revenue by placing a six percent to eight percent sales tax on admission costs for museums, performing arts shows, parks, zoos, and historical sites.
Proponents called for a special fund to be created that would receive the majority of the tax revenue. The money would be used to support various programs in the arts. The tax was met with immediate opposition from various leaders in the arts community however.
Among many complaints was that the tax could add further damage to ticket sales from arts organizations that are already struggling because of the recession as well as alienate the middle and lower class.
One of the most vocal opponents was Peggy Amsterdam, President of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance. Amsterdam voiced her disapproval during the Alliance's annual meeting and member reception.
“It will price everyday people out of arts experiences, and it will push key cultural institutions to the brink,” said Amsterdam. “Why have arts been singled out for this tax, when other forms of entertainment such as sporting events and movies have been exempted?”
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Various protests were organized, including a massive march from Center City to City Hall on Friday, September 25. Arts leaders also rallied earlier today.
While the rejection of the proposal is a victory for proponents of the arts, the battle is far from over. Along with the arts tax, democrats also rejected a tax on “small games of chance.” They proposed instead to impose taxes on natural gas and tobacco, but were met with resistance from various House Republicans, according to philly.com.
The House will vote on the revised budget plan later today. If approved the budget will go to the Senate. If rejected however, there is the possibility of another proposal for the tax. Protesters addressed this during the rally today at City Hall.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we are winning," said rally organizer Robert Weaver, according to philly.com. "We are winning but we have not won yet. We must encourgage legislators to keep the tax off the table."
