California’s Legislature has recently passed a bill, AB/SB 132, which extends the state’s film incentives program until 2030. This bill also sets a significant precedent by becoming the first legislation in the country to establish safety protocols for television and film workers. The bill has now been sent to Governor Gavin Newsom, who is expected to sign it into law.
Since its inception, the film incentives program has been highly successful, generating $8.4 billion in qualified wages for 1.85 million workers in California. Additionally, the 656 film, television, and streaming productions that have received tax credits since 2009 have contributed $23.2 billion to the state’s economy. The Entertainment Union Coalition, consisting of SAG-AFTRA, the Directors Guild, the California IATSE Council, Teamsters Local 399, and Laborers Union Local 724, expressed their gratitude for the passage of AB/SB 132 and commended various individuals for their support and efforts in making this legislation a reality.
Focus on Diversity and Safety
AB/SB 132 not only extends the film incentives program but also includes new diversity provisions and a groundbreaking Safety on Production Pilot Program. The coalition acknowledges Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins and Speaker Anthony Rendon for their longstanding support, as well as Senator Steve Padilla and Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo for their dedicated work on this legislation. Assemblymember Luz Rivas, Senator Maria Elena Durazo, and the members of the Los Angeles County Delegation also played a crucial role in ensuring the timely action required to maintain the success of the tax incentive program.
Senator Dave Cortese is particularly recognized for his unwavering support and efforts in drafting and securing the passage of the production safety legislation. This legislation positions California at the forefront of workplace safety, preserving safe middle-class jobs for all Californians. The coalition emphasizes the significance of this achievement, highlighting the pride that comes with ensuring the well-being of workers in the motion picture industry.
Establishing Safety Protocols and Best Practices
The newly passed bill, AB/SB 132, includes measures to protect film and TV workers by establishing mandatory guidelines for the use of firearms and ammunition on set. It also introduces training requirements and safety standards for prop masters and armorers. Live ammunition will be prohibited, except in limited circumstances where safety rules and laws are strictly followed.
In addition, the bill introduces a five-year safety pilot program that mandates any employer receiving a motion picture tax credit to hire an independent safety advisor. This advisor will be responsible for conducting preproduction risk assessments and overseeing safety practices and procedures in motion picture, TV, and streaming productions.
Mike Miller, the head of IATSE’s West Coast office, expresses gratitude for Senator Dave Cortese’s commitment to industry safety protocols. This landmark safety pilot program in AB/SB 132 marks the culmination of two years of collaboration between Senator Cortese, film studios, and unions. Miller emphasizes the importance of moving beyond theoretical safety measures to actual enforcement on the ground. With this legislation in place, IATSE members and all those involved in productions receiving the California Film and Television Tax Credit 4.0 can have confidence in the prioritization of safety by both the Governor and the legislature.
The passage of AB/SB 132 by the California Legislature represents a significant milestone for the state’s film industry. The extension of the film incentives program coupled with the establishment of safety protocols demonstrates California’s commitment to supporting the entertainment industry while ensuring the well-being of its workers. This legislation sets a precedent for the rest of the country, showcasing the importance of diversity, safety, and the continued growth of the industry in California.