ROAD TO RENEWAL                 

Governor Gregoire has called a special 30-day session that will commence tomorrow to pass a final budget.  The renewal for Washington Filmworks, SB 5539, is considered part of the Senate budget and we are working with House members to get them to adopt the Senate position on this legislation.
Since we are not certain when budget agreements will be reached, we urge you to call or write your elected officials.  Please e-mail or call your legislator today! If you've already written, WRITE AGAIN.  For a full list of members of the Legislature, visit the following link:
 
http://www.leg.wa.gov
 
When writing tell your personal story and reference the economic impact of this program in your letter.
Economic Impact

·      $107.7 million in economic activity since February 2007. December 2010 JLARC study of Washington Filmworks tax credithas a multiplier of 1.99.

·      59 projects - 23 feature films, 4 television movies of the week, 32 commercials since February 2007.

·      $55 million of spending economic activity - total spending within the state.  

Jobs

·      Companies exclusively in film provided 1,629 jobs in Washington during 2009, as reported by JLARC. During 2007 - 2009 producers reported 2,066 jobs (estimated based upon DOC surveys) and in 2010 producers reported creating 1,155 jobs from their film projects. (estimated based on WF Producer Reports).

·      Washington Filmworks creates immediate jobs for Washington workers.  Upon approval for assistance, film projects go into production within 30 days.

·      Washington State is the only program in the country that requires a production to provide health care and retirement benefits.

 
Ask your elected official if they plan to vote for the bill when it comes up for consideration in the House or Senate.  If they respond to your letter, please let us know by forwarding a copy to Info@WashingtonFilmworks.org.