California’s performing arts sector faces critical challenges as Gov. Newsom proposes $11.5 million in cuts to the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund (EPF). This move could jeopardize jobs, arts programs, and crucial tax revenue, sparking strong reactions from advocates. The EPF supports small nonprofits and arts workers affected by Assembly Bill 5, which reclassified many contractors as employees.With the sector still recovering from the pandemic, these proposed cuts place a severe burden on those already struggling. Brooke shields and theater producers are voicing their dismay,emphasizing the importance of arts funding. News Directory 3 follows the story as arts advocates mobilize to prevent these reductions. Will the legislature heed the calls to protect California’s cultural legacy? Discover what’s next regarding this pivotal funding battle.
California Arts Funding Cuts Threaten Performing Arts Jobs
California’s performing arts community is expressing concern over Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed budget revisions, which include an $11.5 million cut to the state’s Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund (EPF). This cutback adds to existing worries about arts and culture funding in California.
The Equitable Payroll Fund supports numerous small nonprofit arts organizations,including theaters,orchestras,and dance companies. It was designed to offset costs associated with Assembly Bill 5, which reclassified many autonomous contractors as employees, and to provide direct financial support to arts workers. Advocates warn that eliminating this program will lead to fewer jobs and fewer arts programs, especially in smaller communities.
the proposed cuts to arts funding in California come at a time when the sector is still recovering from the pandemic and grappling with the challenges of AB5. The performing arts sector is a significant economic driver, generating over 250,000 jobs statewide and contributing substantially to state and local tax revenue.
Brooke Shields, president of Actors Equity, stated that it is “deeply disappointing” to face funding cuts in California, especially when the arts are under attack in Washington, D.C. She emphasized that California cannot be a leader in the arts if it continues to cut arts funding.
“We understand that the state faces a challenging budget deficit and are prepared to support you in making challenging decisions,” said Beatrice Casagran, Theater producers of southern California board vice president. “However, the proposed clawback of 100 percent of the state’s entire investment in the Payroll Fund will eradicate six years of bipartisan legislative efforts to address cascading negative impacts that have led to dire economic instability for workers in the live arts.”
Supporters of the EPF argue that the program is crucial for maintaining a vibrant arts ecosystem and ensuring that arts workers can earn a living wage. They urge the legislature to reject the governor’s proposed cuts, emphasizing the clear return on investment for California’s communities, workforce, and cultural legacy. The cuts to the equitable payroll fund could have far-reaching consequences.
Sarah Allyn Bauer, chief operating officer of Towne Street Theater, said that losing this funding “would mean these vulnerable members of our community would lose a pillar of support in a system that is already jeopardized by the current federal administration.”
What’s next
The California legislature will now consider the governor’s budget proposal, including the proposed cuts to the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll fund. Arts advocates are mobilizing to urge lawmakers to reject the cuts and maintain funding for the arts.
