September has come and gone, and while the seasons have changed, not much else has in Harrisburg.
On September 13th, the House passed a revenue bill that was amended after being passed by the Senate over the summer. The Senate quickly voted to not concur with House amendments, creating the stalemate that we have before us as the month ends. However, the last few days of September provided rumors of a possible budget deal becoming a reality.
The Senate informed members it would be returning to session on Monday, October 2, signaling there could be truth to that rumor. Numerous news stories have been written confirming he possibility of a deal as well.
The good news, while we wait for details of the “deal”, is that upon passage film tax credits will finally start being awarded to projects that are deciding whether to shoot in PA or elsewhere. Numerous productions have already decided to go to other states, further delays will only lead to more lost projects and job opportunities. So, as October begins and the leaves start changing colors, keep your fingers crossed that this rumor becomes reality. Until then, PaFIA continues to advocate with legislators to resolve the budget impasse which is negatively affecting the industry.
Pennsylvania Film Industry Association (PAFIA)461 Cochran Road, Box 246Pittsburgh, PA 15228(717) 833-4561 info@pafia.org