LANSING – State Representatives Bert
Johnson (D-Detroit) and Coleman Young
II (D-Detroit) today announced a bipartisan plan that will create jobs and boost Michigan's economy,
attracting the film industry to our state by offering the most competitive film incentive package in the country. It
will make Michigan one of the most convenient and most affordable states
for production work.
"By giving the film industry incentives to move their productions to the
Detroit area and the rest of the state, we will put people to work as
caterers and crew members," Johnson said. "Not to mention, our local economy will benefit tremendously from an influx of
people and the money they will spend while they're here. This is a plan I urge my colleagues to take immediate action
on."
The bipartisan film incentive package would make it easier and more affordable for production companies to film in
Michigan. Under the plan,
Michigan filmmakers would enjoy a 40 percent tax credit, the biggest tax
break for the film industry in the entire nation. In addition, other tax incentives, loan programs and job
training expense credits would make Michigan one of the most inexpensive
states for production work. The incentive package also opens up state properties such as parks, buildings, roads
and landmarks to be used with ease, cutting the red tape producers normally would have to go through to film in our
state.
The package received support today from Michigan actor Jeff Daniels
and author and Detroit Free Press columnist Mitch Albom.
"With its vibrant city centers, major attractions and picturesque natural settings,
Michigan has a lot to offer the film industry," Young said. "Now we've cut
the red tape so the film industry can come here and create jobs now. There couldn't be a better 'product placement' for
our state."
