Stay in LA Rally Pushes for Expanded Film Tax Incentives to Revive Industry
Hundreds gathered in Sun Valley to support Governor Newsom's $750 million proposal as production levels in Los Angeles continue to decline.
- The Stay in LA campaign held a rally in Sun Valley on Sunday, advocating for Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed $750 million annual tax credit expansion to retain film and TV production in California.
- Speakers emphasized the entertainment industry's role as a middle-class job creator, countering the perception that it primarily benefits the wealthy.
- FilmLA reports show a steep decline in Los Angeles production, with sound stage occupancy rates dropping to 63% in 2024, compared to a 90% average from 2016 to 2022.
- Stay in LA has proposed additional measures, including removing tax incentive caps, lowering film permit fees, and urging studios to commit 10% of productions to Los Angeles.
- Despite the end of Hollywood labor strikes, production levels remain low as other regions with competitive tax incentives continue to attract projects away from California.