Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed plan to boost the tax credit program from $330 million to $750 million in the next year to help keep TV and film production in California has evoked mixed feelings from some in the industry.
The proposal still needs approval by state lawmakers, but Greg Bilson Junior, who runs a prop house called SSI Props, tells KNX News' Emily Valdez he thinks the tax cuts will give the entertainment industry a much-needed boost.
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"This is all below-the-line costs, which are directly spent in local vendors and in businesses all over California, Bilson said. "If I were them, I would make it a billion dollars. I would make it unlimited to let people know we're serious about keeping the film and television industry rooted in California."
Rickie Gustilo, a longtime union camera operator, isn't quite as optimistic.
Gustilo, who typically works on several shows yearly, said some major network shows are hanging by a thread, just getting enough good ratings to continue, but the jobs have all but dried up.
He said, "If you are just getting into the industry, I suggest you run and find another direction because we're not doing well.
Gustilo also said many in the industry are thinking about a career change.
However, Newsom said he hopes the tax credit plan will be approved shortly after he delivers his budget to the Legislature in January, leaving those who are able to hold out, waiting to see what happens.
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