Mariposa County Fair
Sierra Sun TImes file photo

October 15, 2017 - SACRAMENTO – Assemblyman Adam C. Gray (D-Merced) applauded Governor Brown on Saturday for signing into law his bill, AB 1499, which partially restores the state’s investment in California’s network of 78 fairs.

“California was forced to make devastating cuts during the Great Recession, including cutting $30 million in annual funding from the fairs,” said Gray. “The investments promised by this new law significantly improve the financial outlook and economic viability of these important assets.”

Assembly Bill 1499 creates an economic incentive for fairgrounds by allowing them to keep a percentage of the sales tax revenue generated on their properties.

“While fairs are important economic engines in the communities they serve, they also act as evacuation centers and staging areas for fire and emergency services personnel during natural disasters,” continued Gray. “As fires continue to ravage Northern California, I applaud the Governor for recognizing the important role fairgrounds play and making their success a state priority.”
Source: Assemblyman Adam C. Gray