Lawmakers tubthump CA tax incentives

I don't know what to say ... It would be great to see LA busy but this does not help .. it is a band-aid

Krekorian talks up much needed boost

Local lawmakers gathered at a press conference Tuesday morning at the 20th Century Props warehouse in North Hollywood to tubthump California's recent film and television tax incentives.

Assistant majority leader Paul Krekorian, who represents the state's 43rd district including the San Fernando Valley, described the program as "an immediate boost right now, when we need it the most."

"There are many people in Burbank, North Hollywood and throughout California whose life depends on film and television production ," Krekorian added.

Greg Lippe, chair of the Valley Industry and Commerce Assn.'s board of directors, said the program's 30 existing projects have created 6,000 jobs in the San Fernando Valley, where approximately 60% of the film industry's wages are earned.

Yet, some in the industry criticize the program for ignoring broadcast pilots. Along with feature film productions of up to $75 million, the incentive covers only cablers and existing TV series that were first shot out of state.

Krekorian said the program will be open to expansion after its initial five-year run, but for now, its aimed at the below-the-line projects most likely to create jobs.

The California Film Commission has received 59 applications, allocating incentives to 30 possible projects, 25 of which have already received credit.