Arts funding never will be equitable until the law is strengthened.

An unusual partnership of local arts leaders and local lawmakers aren't excited about a recent investigation of the way this state funds cultural events. They say it was too narrow and fell short of suggesting strong, necessary reforms. They say that if the issue is left alone, it's possible that South Jersey will continue to be abused.

They're right. N.J. Secretary of State DeForest B. Soaries Jr. took on a noble task only months ago - he promised to probe the N.J. State Council on the Arts' unfair handling of the South Jersey arts community. And though he found much of what the Courier-Post found in its own investigation, he didn't push for legislative reform. And legislative reform - no question - is what's needed to stitch up the loopholes that allow the Arts Council to curry favor with North Jersey.

One blatant example of the abuse of South Jersey arts groups is how the Arts Council pays folks from the North to come to South Jersey to perform. Alone, it doesn't seem too obscene. But considering the Arts Council has counted it toward its quota of cash for South Jersey, it's outrageous.

There are scores of artists and groups in South Jersey who could do much to boost cultural awareness here, yet the hidebound Arts Council instead brings in North Jersey artists funded with state tax dollars.

And since the Arts Council was crafty enough to evade the intent of the original law, the law must be rewritten - making it clear that money allocated for South Jersey must go to South Jersey groups performing in South Jersey venues. No substitute will due.

"I think it's clear that the budget language needs revision," said Assemblyman Joseph Roberts, D-Camden. "It has to be made as clear as it can possibly be, so that it isn't subject to more questionable interpretation in the future."

Roberts is on target.

Though South Jersey has Soaries to thank for probing this issue, he can't be this region's hero. Pointing out a problem and then running away from a solution isn't what South Jersey needs. When someone finally has the courage to rewrite the law, only then will the South Jersey arts community get the respect it deserves.