Virginia Senate Bill SB937

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/23
• Refer: 1/6/23
• Report Pass: 1/25/23

Caption

Television Production Development Grant Program and Fund; established, report.

Impact

The bill is expected to positively influence the economic landscape of Virginia by promoting television production projects that can create jobs and stimulate local economies. Funded projects are required to prioritize hiring Virginia workers, and periodic reports on the economic outcomes of these grants will be submitted by the Virginia Film Office and the overseeing Authority. This focus on local employment and infrastructure investment is designed to ensure that the economic benefits of the program are felt within the community.

Summary

SB937 establishes the Television Production Development Grant Program and Fund, which aims to support the television industry in Virginia. The legislation creates a special fund within the state treasury that will gather appropriations, donations, and other financial support specifically for providing competitive grants to television production companies. These grants will aid in the filming and investment in television-related projects within the Commonwealth, fostering growth in the local television production sector.

Contention

While supporters of SB937 argue that it will enhance Virginia’s appeal as a location for television productions, thus driving economic development, some critics may raise concerns about the allocation of state funds and the effectiveness of such grant programs. Questions could arise regarding whether these grants truly yield a significant return on investment for the state or if they could lead to dependency on state support within the entertainment sector. Additionally, the exclusion of motion pictures from the grant eligibility may lead to discussions on the overall impact on the broader film industry in Virginia.