Arts Programs See Some Funds Restored By Congress
WASHINGTON (AP) -- A budget deal approved by Congress restores funding for some national arts and cultural programs, but others will still see reductions.
In the funding bill approved this week, lawmakers decided against providing construction money for the planned Dwight D. Eisenhower memorial in Washington. The deal provides $1 million for salaries and expenses of the federal memorial commission, dismissing its $51 million budget request.
The budget deal challenges memorial planners to detail their private fundraising for the project. The memorial has been delayed amid a dispute over architect Frank Gehry's design.
Other arts agencies would see funding restored as Congress scaled back automatic budget cuts. The deal provides $805 million for the Smithsonian Institution, restoring $30 million cut last year.
President Barack Obama is expected to sign the bill by Saturday.
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