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SACRAMENTO –Today, Assemblyman Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, submitted a letter supporting the California Film Commission's regulatory changes that would include movie ranches in the grant formula for the new film tax credit.
“The Santa Clarita Valley is home to 10 movie ranches that offer filmmakers a unique, realistic backdrop to bring their creations to life,” Wilk said. “These changes in the film tax credit will bring more business to 'Hollywood North' and build upon last's year's $30 million in economic activity in our valley.”
Wilk was principal coauthor of the film tax credit, AB 1839, which successfully passed the legislature and was signed by Governor Jerry Brown. However, when the emergency regulations by the California Film Commission were adopted the definition of “production facility” inadvertently excluded movie ranches from the category. This means filming on movie ranches does not count in calculating the tax credit.
In late October, Wilk along with Assemblyman Adrin Nazarian (D-Sherman Oaks) met with the California Film Commission to advocate that movie ranches be included in awarding “bonus points” in the competitive grant process.
The commission agreed and the latest iteration of the emergency regulations includes movie ranches. The final step is to pass the permanent regulation guaranteeing movie ranches qualify for the film tax credit. The tax credit is $330 million per year for the next five years.
Wilk stated, “I'm proud of our valley's rich history with film and television. I'll continue to be a champion for this iconic industry.”
Comments can be submitted to the California Film Commission until January 25, 2016. The commission expects the final regulations to be adapted by mid-April.