California Governor Gavin Newsom has imposed fines on the Temecula Valley Unified School District (TVUSD) following a disagreement over curriculum choices. The conflict arose after the school board, with a conservative majority, rejected state-approved learning materials that reportedly included mention of LGBTQ+ rights activist Harvey Milk.

Newsom criticized the board members, accusing them of prioritizing political agendas over student education. He stated that the state would intervene to provide students with the approved materials, and the district would be fined $1.5 million, plus an additional $1.6 million for shipping costs. This action follows Newsom's earlier warning to the district and his public condemnation of board president Dr. Joseph Komrosky's remarks about Milk.

The board defended its decision, asserting its right to choose materials and emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in curriculum decisions. Komrosky clarified that the board did not ban the book but opted not to adopt the state's recommendation. He maintained his stance on the age appropriateness of the material, particularly regarding discussions of sex and sexuality in elementary school.

Newsom's office later clarified that the textbook in question does not actually mention Harvey Milk and that the $1.5 million fine is related to AB 1078, not shipping. The district ultimately reversed its decision and adopted the updated curriculum, prompting further criticism from Newsom who accused the board of censorship and having ulterior motives.