State Budget:

The Governor's May revision proposes cutting the $11.5 million Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund (PAEPF), established to support performing arts jobs, despite overwhelming demand and applications from 88% of legislative districts. Although the state faces an estimated $12 billion deficit, this funding is relatively small and its elimination risks closures and program cuts. We strongly urge the Legislature and Governor to reinstate PAEPF funding.

Next Steps:

The Senate and Assembly are currently drafting their budget proposals, and we're hopeful that funds for PAEPF will be included. Senators Ben Allen and Assemblymember Matt Haney are actively advocating for this restoration. It's crucial to continue contacting your representatives and urging their support. The Legislature aims to pass a budget bill by June 15th, with a finalized budget expected in early July. We're working diligently in Sacramento with our contract and partner lobbyists, including those from Actor's Equity. A huge thank you to grassroots advocates and regional partners like Arts for LA, SD Art Matters, Theatre Bay Area, and Theatre Producers of Southern California for their outstanding efforts in this fight.

The Governor's January budget proposal to expand the Film TV Tax credit to $750 million has remained consistent through the May revision. However, during a recent appropriations hearing, the Legislature moved to revert the bills to a $330 million tax credit. Negotiations are ongoing to determine the final tax credit amount and the specific bill provisions. Additionally, discussions include whether these provisions will incentivize more out-of-zone productions.

Funding for the California Arts Council remained unchanged between the January and May revisions, holding steady year over year at $21 million for local grants assistance. However, California currently ranks 35th in the US for per capita arts funding, prompting ongoing advocacy for the state to assume a leadership role in supporting the arts.

Legislation Update: 

With a unanimous 35-0 vote, the Community Beautification Act (SB 456), authored by Senator Ashby, successfully passed the Senate Floor, demonstrating strong bipartisan support. Co-sponsored by California Arts Advocates (CAA) and the California League of Cities, this bill aims to modernize state regulations by removing the requirement for muralists to hold painting contractor licenses. This burdensome mandate poses an unnecessary and costly hurdle for artists. The legislation now proceeds to the Assembly for committee hearings. If approved, it will advance to the Assembly Floor and potentially reach the Governor's desk by September for final approval.

AB 1349 (Bryan) Consumer Protection; ticket sellers was held in appropriations and will be a two year bill. CAA testified in support of the bill this year and was able to secure successful amendments for nonprofit venues and presenting organizations.