For Immediate
Release: August 11, 2005
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Rep. Susuan Winchester and Sen. Debbe Leftwich watch as the Governor
ceremoniously signs HB 1716.
Lawmakers Anticipate Growth in Oklahoma
Film/Music Projects
Sen. Debbe
Leftwich, D-OKC, and Rep. Susan
Winchester, R-Chickasha, said they were both looking forward
to seeing new film and music production projects in the Sooner
State after taking part in a ceremonial bill signing ceremony
with Gov. Brad Henry on Thursday
at the State Capitol. The ceremony centered on two pieces of legislation
co-authored by the two lawmakers with the aim of boosting film
and music production in Oklahoma.
“After seeing American Idol winner Carrie Underwood yesterday,
I’m really excited about this legislation. Instead of exporting
our talented Oklahomans to places like Nashville or Los Angeles,
we could actually keep them here and attract even more with our
own production facilities for music and film,” Leftwich
said. “That’s the idea behind these bills.”
Senate Bill 877 amends the Tourism Development Act to extend tax
benefits to music production as well as film production. House
Bill 1716 will create an income tax credit equal to 25 percent
of the profits for a film or music project when those profits
are then re-invested into another Oklahoma-based production.
“These measures are great economic incentive programs for
our state, but more than that, they’re a way to encourage
and promote the incredible talent we have here in Oklahoma and
further promote our state on a national and international level,”
Winchester said. “I think the possibilities ahead are very
exciting.”
HB 1716 has already become law. SB 877 officially takes effect
on November 1, 2005.
For
more information contact:
Senate Communications
Office - (405) 521-5774
