California’s schools are poised to receive more precise guidance on utilizing their substantial arts education funding, as a bill aiming to refine the allocation of $1 billion annually progresses to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. This development follows a consensus reached with a key proponent of the original arts funding initiative.
“I’m delighted to come to an agreement that will further arts education for kids in California,” remarked Austin Beutner, former superintendent of Los Angeles Unified, who played a pivotal role in crafting Proposition 28, a landmark proposal aimed at enhancing music, theater, drama, and fine arts programs in K-12 education.
The proposed legislation, AB 2440, seeks to clarify Proposition 28, which garnered widespread voter support in 2022. Under Prop. 28, schools are required to use the newly allocated arts funds to enhance, rather than replace, existing programs. However, ambiguity surrounding the proposition’s guidelines has led several districts to return their funds to avoid potential legal repercussions.
This was notably the case with Los Angeles Unified, which Beutner sued in 2025, alleging the district misused Prop. 28 funds by cutting existing arts programs—a claim the district has denied. The legal proceedings are ongoing in Los Angeles Superior Court.
Defining Arts Education Under Prop. 28
Introduced by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, a Democrat from Torrance, AB 2440 aims to reduce schools’ uncertainties regarding their arts funding. The bill seeks to better align Prop. 28 with California’s existing arts education framework, offering schools a clear definition of what constitutes an arts class.
Additionally, the bill permits schools to pool Prop. 28 funds and share resources like arts teachers. It also clarifies whether external arts funding, such as from band boosters or nonprofit groups, counts toward a school’s existing arts budget.
Initially, Beutner opposed the bill, expressing concern that it might undermine Prop. 28 by offering schools excessive flexibility, potentially leading them to use funds to replace rather than supplement arts programs. His opposition threatened the bill’s progress until a compromise was reached following media coverage by outlets like CalMatters. The revised bill now includes a clause mandating that local education agencies certify compliance with all Prop. 28 provisions at each school site.
Increased Access to Arts Education
The amended language satisfied Beutner, who withdrew his opposition in mid-August. “My hope is that this causes districts to further reflect on whether they’re in compliance with Prop. 28,” Beutner stated. “I’m delighted we were able to collaborate on this.” The bill received unanimous approval.
Kyle Holmes, director of statewide arts initiatives for California County Superintendents and a strong advocate for Muratsuchi’s bill, expressed enthusiasm for its likely enactment. “For kids, this will mean more art,” Holmes stated. “That’s the heart of this bill, making sure schools have better access to Prop. 28 funds, giving schools the clarity they need to get funding to students.”
Despite these advancements, Prop. 28 still faces challenges, particularly in securing qualified arts educators. Some districts have struggled with vacancies lasting over six months, as demand for arts teachers exceeds supply. A recent Stanford Research Institute study identified a deficit of 5,000 arts teachers in the state.
“We’re seeing more and more colleges offering credential programs for the arts,” Holmes noted. “But more young people need to know that if you’re interested in teaching the arts there’s a clear pathway to a high-paying career.”
