IL HR0271

Calls upon the Governor to prioritize arts education funding throughout the budgeting process, recognizing arts as a core academic subject essential to complete and balanced education.

Urges elected officials and schools throughout Illinois to maintain existing art programs in their curricula.

Identifies multiple benefits of arts education including development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, creativity, discipline, and cross-cultural understanding that support academic success.

Notes research showing 8th graders from under-resourced areas highly involved in the arts have better grades, lower dropout rates, more positive school attitudes, and higher college enrollment rates.

Recognizes the non-profit arts sector as an economic engine contributing to community economic health through wages, benefits, and goods and services.