FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: James M. Dawes Communications Director Professional Licensure Committee Phone: 717-772-0036 Fax: 717-705-1923 E-Mail: jdawes@pahouse.net	State Rep. Mike Sturla D-Lancaster Majority Deputy Whip Chairman, Professional Licensure Committee www.pahouse.com/sturla

House passes Sturla bill to aid independent films in Pa.

HARRISBURG, June 30 – The state House today passed H.B. 1529 introduced by Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster, that would support the growing independent film industry’s presence in Pennsylvania by expanding the state’s Film Production Grant Program by 50 percent, from $10 million to $15 million.

“Having worked with independent filmmakers in Lancaster, I know firsthand how challenging it is for them to cover the production costs of a movie. Last year, the state’s $10 million Film Production Grant Program fund was depleted by applicable projects within 22 days of the fiscal year. Thus, I am proud that the House passed my bill to help define Pennsylvania as a new location for innovative film and media arts by dramatically increasing funding available to independent films. “

Under Sturla’s bill, the Film Production Grant Program would be limited to productions with a budget of less than $2 million. The grants, which could not exceed 20 percent of the production costs, would cover certain expenses incurred in Pennsylvania, including transportation, music and story rights, food, lodging and insurance coverage.

“Our state’s diversity and beauty, coupled with incentives for the entertainment industry, will provide for more economic development opportunities within the Commonwealth,” Sturla said.

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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