Tom Raffio

Testimony in Support of SB 522, re-establishing the commission to study the economic impact of the arts and culture in New Hampshire March 25th, 2026 Thank you, Chairman Harb and Members of the Resources, Recreation and Development Committee. I am proud to submit this testimony in support of SB 522 because of my commitment to and longstanding support of New Hampshire’s creative economy. As the former Chair of the New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts, I, along with representatives from over 80 businesses across the Granite State, have worked to educate, motivate and recognize business support of and participation in the arts. We have done so because we recognized the importance of a thriving creative economy to new Hampshire’s overall economy. A vibrant arts scene is crucial for attracting and retaining talent in New Hampshire. Beyond their financial contributions, the arts educate, inspire, and heal, fostering unity and resilience in both urban and rural communities. They serve as a powerful force in strengthening our social fabric and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Although the New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts has ceased operations, I continue to firmly believe in its mission of advocating for the value of the arts in economic, social and community development. I feel confident that a commission to study the economic impact of the arts and culture in New Hampshire will recognize that value. Arts organizations and businesses not only bind communities, they are economic multipliers for local economies, generating employment opportunities and revenue for restaurants, hotels, and retail businesses. Ten years ago, a legislative Commission to Study the Economic Impact of the Arts and Culture in New Hampshire concluded that “an in-depth study of the economic value of New Hampshire’s cultural sector would provide the baseline data needed to determine what actions might be necessary to further increase the contribution of arts and culture to state revenues.” Ten years on, it is time to revisit the work of the 2016 Commission and build upon it. Following the dissolution of the New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts, a study to assess the impact of the arts on the New Hampshire economy is more important now than ever. SB 522 was recommended ought to pass by the Senate Executive Departments and Administration Committee. I encourage this Committee to make the same recommendation. Thank you for your consideration. Tom Raffio