The city of Portland, Oregon, has put arts funding directly into the hands of every taxpayer. Last November, voters passed a new annual income tax of $35 that will raise an estimated $12.2 million a year from 350,000 citizens.

Local arts organizations and the city's cultural infrastructure will benefit, including elementary schools where “certified arts or music education teachers” will be funded.

Taxpayers (anyone with an income who falls above the poverty line) can now pay the flat fee tax online, in person, or by mail.