A proposal to extend a California film and television production tax credit for five years beyond its 2020 expiration has been forwarded by a state Senate committee.
“Since 2009, the Film and Television Tax Credit has been an important tool in our economic toolbox, helping us grow, retain and attract film and TV projects, creating jobs, boosting our economy and ensuring that California maintains its place as the country’s epicenter of entertainment and creativity,” Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins said.
SB 951 was introduced by Sen. Holly J. Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) with Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-La Canada Flintridge) joining it as a co-author. It was approved with a 6-0 vote by the Senate Appropriations Committee.
“California’s film and TV industries are among the state’s strongest economic and most creative forces internationally, and I’m proud many of its hard-working employees are my constituents,” Mitchell said. “These are good-paying jobs that can last a lifetime, and these projects contribute $5.9 billion in direct in-state spending, including $2.3 million wages to technical crew.”
The tax credit currently provides up to $330 million each year to stimulate film and TV production. Atkins’ office said SB 951 makes numerous improvements to the program.
“California is the entertainment capital of the world and the heart of the 25th Senate District with studios and craftspeople that have created the most important and well-respected film and television entertainment in history,” Portantino said. “The Legislature needs to do everything it can to keep California residents working across our Golden State in a beloved industry.”
