The San Diego Regional Film Financial Incentive Pilot Program.
The bill places significant emphasis on benefitting the local economy by requiring that a considerable portion of the funds be utilized to hire local workers and businesses. By creating this incentive, the bill seeks to boost employment opportunities within the community and foster a sustainable film production environment in San Diego. The initiative aims to position San Diego as a competitive location for film production, potentially increasing tourism and related economic activities. The program is slated to provide a report to the legislature by January 1, 2024, assessing its effectiveness before the provisions are set to expire on January 1, 2025.
Assembly Bill 3186, introduced by Assembly Member Gloria, establishes the San Diego Regional Film Financial Incentive Pilot Program. This program is designed to award grants to small-budget independent film and television productions that meet specific criteria, including having a minimum production budget of $250,000 and ensuring at least 70% of expenditures go to laborers, retailers, or suppliers who are permanent residents of San Diego County. A total of $50 million has been appropriated over three years to fund this initiative, which aims to attract and support the local film industry, ultimately promoting economic growth in the region.
A notable point of contention surrounding AB 3186 involves the implications of state-mandated local programs and the absence of reimbursement for costs incurred by local agencies due to this bill. The legislation asserts that there is no requirement for reimbursement due to the nature of the program being initiated at the local agency's request. This has raised concerns among some local officials about the financial implications and responsibilities placed on the County of San Diego. Ultimately, the efficacy and impact of this program will depend on successful administration and the level of interest from independent film projects.