State Legislature Approves
Film Wisconsin Incentive Bill

MADISON, Wis. – May 2, 2006 – With the passage today on a voice vote by the State Assembly of Senate Bill # 563, the Film Wisconsin incentive legislation, Wisconsin will soon become one of the most “film friendly” states in the nation when they go into effect July 1, 2007.

This action follows a senate roll call vote of 27 to 6 in favor that took place on April 25. The bill, which will provide tax credits to qualifying film productions doing work in the state, now goes to Governor Jim Doyle for his signature. The Governor is expected to sign the bill at formal ceremonies next month.

“The state legislature sent a loud and clear message to the worldwide film, television and video industry today – Wisconsin wants your business,” said George Tzougros, executive director of the Wisconsin Arts Board in Madison and a member of the Film Wisconsin Task Force. “We have the diversity of landscapes both urban and rural, four distinct seasons, a Great Lake, the creative talent and now the incentives that will create a significant film economy for Wisconsin.

“We want to thank the members of our film, hospitality and tourism, business and other creative industry partners for their active work to educate the members of the legislature on the economic benefits of this bill. This bill would not have been possible without the leadership of lead sponsor Senator Ted Kanavas as well as the active support from Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton, Representative Curt Gielow, Senator Alberta Darling and Speaker John Gard.” added Tzougros.”

Prior to the incentives becoming effective next year, a number of film projects have expressed interest in working in Wisconsin. “We’re going to work hard to replicate those incentives by putting together attractive production packages on a project-by-project basis,” said Scott Robbe, a FILM Wisconsin task force member and a Madison-based filmmaker. "These projects have the potential short-term to bring millions of dollars into the state and create positive momentum as we build a creative film infrastructure in Wisconsin.”

FILM WISCONSIN (www.filmwisconsin.net) is a volunteer group dedicated to nurturing and sustaining Wisconsin’s film and media industry. Film Wisconsin advocates for the industry in the global marketplace, provides information and resources on the industry, and is a technical assistance organization for individuals and organizations engaged in film, television, advertising, documentary, corporate video, video gaming and still photography production in the state.  

Contacts:
George Tzougros, Wisconsin Arts Board, 608/267-2006
Dave Fantle, VISIT Milwaukee, 414/287-4253
Scott Robbe, Film Wisconsin, 608/271-8755
Date Posted: 5/3/06