By Dave Donaldson
The Senate today approved continuation of the tax credits for making television shows and movies in Alaska.
Sponsor Johnny Ellis of Anchorage says the initial five years of the credits have proven the idea to have succeeded.
I don’t know if stampede would be the correct term, but things are cooking out there like we never imagined. Lot of money to be made, a lot of jobs to be had; and it’s a very exciting prospect. That means number cable TV shows – cable TV has fallen in love with Alaska. And that’s a great thing for our tourism promotion. And also multiple feature films have been shooting or scouting in the state of Alaska.
Ellis says the credits are only given after the money has been spent and the production has occurred in the state. Additionally, all debts to Alaskans must be settled – and audited — before the credit is given. The bill passed with no opposition and next goes to the House for consideration.
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