Gov. David M. Apatang has ordered the Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture to move under the Marianas Visitors Authority, shifting the agency’s oversight from the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs to the CNMI’s tourism arm. The change, outlined in Executive Order 2026‑014, will take effect 60 days after it is submitted to the Legislature unless lawmakers vote to modify or reject it.
Apatang said the transfer is intended to streamline government operations and strengthen the link between cultural preservation and tourism promotion. “Preservation of the CNMI’s artistic traditions and cultural heritage is closely intertwined with promotion of our islands as an attractive tourist destination,” the order states.
Under the directive, the Arts Council will continue its statutory duties but will now operate under the supervision of MVA’s executive director. The order also directs the Council to work with the Office of Grants Management to shift federal grant recipient responsibilities whenever possible and ensure timely drawdowns of existing grant funds.
The Council was originally placed under DCCA through Executive Order 94‑3. Apatang cited constitutional authority allowing the governor to reallocate agencies “for efficient administration” as the basis for the change.
The order emphasizes that it does not create new legal rights and includes a standard severability clause should any portion be ruled invalid.
