The origin, funding, expenditures, structure, and future directions of 55 state arts agencies are summarized. In addition to the 50 states, information is included for the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Data are for fiscal year 1974 and were obtained through interviews with directors and agency reports. Most state agencies were founded, either by executive order or legislation, in the 1960's. Appropriations, grants, and other funds from all sources to the state arts agencies and separate associated foundations totaled $45.4 million in 1974; expenditures amounted to $43.8 million. Major recipients of project expenditures were performing arts organizations. As of the end of fiscal year 1974, 42 state arts agencies were autonomous. All agencies had a governing council or commission headed by a chairperson. The structure closely resembled that of a private nonprofit corporation. Councils and commissions were composed largely of persons from fields other than the arts; most members were men and a large majority were white. Three out of every five staff members were women. Finally, most agencies anticipated increases in funding over the next 3 to 5 years. (KC)