On Wednesday, nine lawmakers in Salem will hold their first meeting to kick off the Arts and Culture Caucus in the Oregon state legislature. Although lawmakers have convened multiple caucuses to advocate for various causes and legislative interests, there has never before been a caucus organized specifically to assist arts and culture organizations, which continue to struggle with recovery from the pandemic. The bipartisan caucus aims to raise awareness among fellow lawmakers of issues impacting arts venues and organizations across the state, and identify legislation that could provide relief through additional state funding or other support.

Joining us are two members of the caucus, Representative Rob Nosse, a Democrat who represents District 42 which covers inner Southeast and a sliver of Northeast Portland; and Senator Dick Anderson, a Republican from Oregon’s 5th District which covers all of Lincoln County and parts of Benton, Lane, Douglas and Coos Counties.