SACRAMENTO, CA – On January 10, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom submitted a 2020-21 budget proposal to the Legislature that includes a one-time $10 million increased general fund allocation for the California Arts Council, California’s state arts agency.

According to the Governor’s budget proposal, the following provisions are proposed to be expended or encumbered over a three-year period:

• $9 million shall be provided for the support of existing cultural districts and the addition of cultural districts in underrepresented areas
• $1 million shall be provided for the development of disaster preparedness guidelines and best practices at the county level

This is the first step in the 2020-21 state budget process. The budget is developed by the Legislature from now until the Governor’s signature in June, taking effect July 1, 2020.

California Arts Council Chair Nashormeh Lindo and Executive Director Anne Bown-Crawford issued the following joint statement in response to Governor Newsom’s proposed budget:

“The California Arts Council plays a vital role in protecting and preserving the cultural identity of our state. We are deeply grateful to Governor Newsom for his thoughtful leadership in prioritizing our cultural districts and disaster preparedness initiatives in this state budget proposal. These initiatives demonstrate community-building results that respond to local needs and priorities by placing arts and culture at the center of cross-sector partnerships. We look forward to working with the Governor’s Office and the Legislature throughout this year’s budget process in support of Governor Newsom’s vision of all Californians striving and succeeding together–in pursuit of their own version of the California Dream.”

The Governor’s full budget proposal is posted at www.ebudget.ca.gov.

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The mission of the California Arts Council, a state agency, is to advance California through the arts and creativity. The Council is committed to building public will and resources for the arts; fostering accessible arts initiatives that reflect contributions from all of California’s diverse populations; serving as a thought leader and champion for the arts; and providing effective and relevant programs and services.

Members of the California Arts Council include: Chair Nashormeh Lindo, Vice Chair Jaime Galli, Larry Baza, Juan Devis, Jodie Evans, Kathleen Gallegos, Stanlee Gatti, and Donn K. Harris. Learn more at www.arts.ca.gov.

The California Arts Council is committed to increasing the accessibility of its online content. For language and accessibility assistance, visit http://arts.ca.gov/aboutus/language.php.