San Francisco Film Incentives Pass

On April 4, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed California’s first film and television incentive program. The measure passed by a vote of 9-2. “Today, San Francisco stood up for its artists, writers, stagehands, and drivers,” said Supervisor Michela Alioto-Pier, who sponsored the measure. Members of IATSE District 2 testified at meetings on March 13 and March 27. Among those who was spoke was Andrew Bennett, a member of Local 16.

The incentive package includes a rebate of city fees and expenses for productions that shoot 65 percent or more their principal photography in San Francisco. Smaller films, with a budget of $3 million or less, would only have to shoot 55 percent of their principal photography in San Francisco. Productions could only apply for the rebate after the completion of principal photography to ensure that the benefits only go to those that base themselves and create jobs in San Francisco.