Proposition 28: Education

Proposition 28 requires the state to establish a fund specifically for music and arts education in public schools. The campaign was launched by former Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Austin Beutner last November, and was placed on the ballot through citizen petitions.

This proposition relates to Proposition 98, which guarantees a minimum annual funding level for public education. Under Proposition 28, schools would receive an amount equivalent to 1% of the funds they received from Proposition 98 the previous fiscal year.

Proposition 28 does not implement a new tax for California citizens, instead relying on California’s recent budget surpluses. The California Legislative Analyst’s Office notes that the ballot initiative would lead to $800 million to $1 billion in additional state spending.

If the proposition fails, schools would continue to receive state funds under Proposition 98, but no fund would be created specifically for public music and arts education.