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Listen: The Multimedia Jobs Act
The Multimedia Jobs Act has the potential to transform Michigan’s Economy.
In Summary
• The Multimedia Jobs Act is a two-bill package currently being considered in Lansing that could bring about job creation and economic growth in Michigan.
• If passed, companies hiring Michigan residents would receive a 30% tax credit and other incentives for filming projects featuring “Filmed in Michigan,” “Pure Michigan,” or “Michigan Film & Digital Media Office” logos.
• Jason Hoskins, chair of the State House’s Economic Development and Small Business Committee, believes this bill can help retain talent in Michigan, which is needed to revive the state’s former success in the film industry.
• Supporters of the bill hope it will create new opportunities and stimulate economic growth across multiple sectors in the state.
Lawmakers in Lansing are currently considering the Multimedia Jobs Act bill, and it has the potential to be a game-changer for job creation and the state’s economy. Enthusiasts who have big plans for growing Detroit and Michigan’s economy through the film and television production industry are optimistic about the bill’s prospects.
Introduced last summer with bipartisan support, the Multimedia Jobs Act is a two-bill package that has gained traction in both the State House of Representatives and the State Senate. If passed, the legislation would provide incentives and support for Michigan-produced films, television projects, corporate videos, digital streaming productions, and commercials. This move is projected to give a much-needed boost to the state’s economy.
Under the proposed legislation, film and television production companies hiring Michigan residents would receive a 30% tax credit. Various minimum spend requirements apply, including $50,000 for commercials, commercial photography, and short films and $300,000 for feature films and TV shows. Additionally, the legislation offers tax credits for in-state spending and filming projects that feature the logos “filmed in Michigan,” “Pure Michigan,” or “Michigan Film & Digital Media Office.”
Jason Hoskins, chair of the State House’s Economic Development and Small Business Committee, views the passage of this legislation as a crucial step in retaining talent in Michigan. Hoskins recognizes that the film industry can attract, grow, and retain talented individuals in the state. Without a robust film and television infrastructure, many talented Michiganders look elsewhere for opportunities. By keeping talent in Michigan, the industry can thrive, benefiting the state and its residents.
Michigan once ranked among the top states for film and television productions, drawing major projects and significant investments. However, the incentive program implemented during Governor Jennifer M. Granholm’s term faced criticism and limitations when Governor Rick Snyder took office. Many production companies looked to other states for more attractive programs. In 2015, Michigan’s film incentive program was ultimately ended.
However, with the potential passage of the Multimedia Jobs Act, Hoskins believes that Michigan can once again become a hub for film and television production. He emphasizes the positive impact that filming in the state can have on job creation and ancillary opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
While there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of film incentive programs, supporters of the Multimedia Jobs Act are hopeful that it will bring new opportunities and prosperity to Michigan. This legislation has the potential to reignite the industry and create a ripple effect of economic growth, benefiting various sectors in the state.
With its focus on attracting and retaining talent, promoting Michigan-based projects, and stimulating economic growth, the Multimedia Jobs Act has the potential to reshape the state’s film and television production industry. If passed, this bill could bring about a new era of prosperity and success for Michigan.