The Joint Hearing of the Joint Committee on the Arts and the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee convened on May 14, 2025, to address pressing issues affecting the arts and humanities in California. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding recent federal actions that threaten funding and support for cultural institutions.

The discussion opened with a stark overview of over a hundred executive orders issued since January, which have targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These orders have led to the elimination of the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities, the cancellation of grants, and staff reductions at key institutions such as the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The proposed federal budget for fiscal year 2026 further exacerbates these issues by suggesting the complete elimination of funding for these vital organizations.

The impact of these cuts is profound, as the arts and culture sector contributes approximately $1.2 trillion to the U.S. economy, accounting for 4% of the GDP. The meeting underscored the human, social, and economic costs associated with these funding reductions. Representatives from Americans for the Arts shared findings from a recent survey indicating that federal grants are being rescinded mid-project, causing immediate financial strain on organizations and leading to job losses and program shutdowns.

In California, the situation is particularly dire. Since 2020, the NEA has awarded over $70 million in grants to the state, supporting arts education and community programs. The sudden withdrawal of these funds has disproportionately affected small, community-based organizations, especially those serving rural, immigrant, and elderly populations. California boasts the largest and most diverse creative economy in the nation, generating approximately $289 billion and supporting over 800,000 jobs. However, the state ranks 35th in per capita arts funding, with only 53 cents allocated per resident.

The urgency of the situation was emphasized, with calls for state and local governments to step up and support the arts community. The meeting concluded with a commitment to building coalitions and advocating for the arts, recognizing their essential role in enhancing quality of life and fostering community connections.

Overall, the hearing served as a critical platform for addressing the challenges facing the arts sector in California, highlighting the need for immediate action to safeguard funding and support for cultural initiatives.