Arizona Bill SB 1242 - Arizona is taking action in the entertainment business

"California or Bust” – that’s what most Arizona screenwriters, producers and directors say when it comes to film production in Arizona. Why is that … because Arizona can’t compete with other states (especially it's big neighbor) when it comes to tax incentives for producing entertainment media.

Well that’s about to maybe change. SB 1242 is a tax credit for Arizona multimedia companies. The goal is to keep film making here, not to go to New Mexico or California. It will give tax credit to companies who produce entertainment media in the state of Arizona. SB 1242 would apply to not only to film production, but also TV shows, commercials and video games.

This tax incentive helps Arizona become a more focal point on the film making map. In addition to our fabulous weather, terrain and short distance from Hollywood, SB 1242 will help make Arizona a destination that the entertainment industry can’t ignore.

“Economically it can potentially generate thousands of jobs and help build a stable entertainment community” according to Andy Rodriguez McCradic, Arizona based screenwriter, director and producer. “This is the beginning of an historic foothold” says Andy, to help build an industry in Arizona which has been avoided when it comes to entertainment production.

“This is the carrot that draws production”, Andy claims, “it’ll create new revenue” for film makers and TV production. Film offices in New York and Los Angeles wouldn't be able to ignore Arizona any more.

But what is the problem getting this bill acted on? This bill can help provide consistent employment for thousands of people – it can draw talent from show business epicenters such as New York and Los Angeles, but it needs to pass.

“We need more action and less talk” says Andy, “it needs to be done.” Film students who graduate from ASU or UofA’s film schools head west. There’s a “mystique” to film making and those students are lured to “move to LA” Andy claims. Wouldn't it great if after they graduated, they would start filming right in their own backyard – yes.