For Immediate Release:
August 11, 2005
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