SAG-AFTRA Backs Tax Credit for Film Post-Production

California's push to retain film and television post-production jobs is intensifying with the advocacy for Assembly Bill 2319. While Governor Gavin Newsom's final budget did not initially include funding for the postproduction tax credit, efforts are underway to secure it through a trailer bill. This legislative push, spearheaded by the California Post Alliance (CAPA) and co-sponsored by the Editors Guild, has garnered crucial support from SAG-AFTRA.

SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin has become a vocal proponent, releasing a video urging industry workers to contact their state representatives in support of AB 2319. Astin emphasized the union's commitment to supporting its members in post-production roles, highlighting the economic importance of keeping these jobs in California. The bill aims to offer a 35 percent base tax credit for productions that conduct their post-production work in the state, even if principal photography occurs elsewhere or doesn't qualify for existing production tax credits.

The legislation has already passed the State Assembly and is now advancing through the State Senate. This comes at a time when California is facing fiscal constraints. The bill's proponents, including CAPA, stress that post-production is a vital component of the state's creative economy and crucial for Hollywood's future. The Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled to review the bill on August 3.