Stay in L.A. Rally Calls for Increased Tax Incentives to Keep Production Local: ‘This Is Our Iconic Industry’

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The main focus of the “Stay in L.A.” rally was an emotional call to action, urging local film productions to continue operating within Los Angeles, and a salute to the hardworking blue-collar employees who contribute significantly to the film industry in the area.

Under the auspices of SirReel Studio Services, approximately 600 individuals convened on April 6 in Sun Valley, California, to bring focus to Governor Newsom’s plan to escalate the state film subsidy to a yearly allocation of $750 million. Keynote speakers such as Simran Baidwan, executive producer of “The Pitt,” Burbank Mayor Nikki Perez, and Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur mobilized backing for bills AB 1138 and SB 630. These legislative measures aim to augment the incentive and expand the range of productions eligible for consideration.

Prior to performing, Zbur confided in EbMaster that while he’s thankful for the backing AB 1138 has received thus far, it’s unfortunate that events such as Stay in L.A. are necessary at all.

Attending this venue on a weekend isn’t just about leisure for me, it’s a testament to the fact that our thriving industries are being enticed away by other states. This industry, so emblematic of California, is not merely a part of our landscape but an integral piece of our identity. It’s crucial that we safeguard our creations and what truly belongs to us.

Lawmakers additionally discussed the possibility of implementing a countrywide movie incentive, an idea that entertainment unions have long pursued, as an alternative to the current system of state-by-state solutions. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, D-Los Angeles, emphasized the need to “present a compelling argument” in Congress for federal funding in this regard.

The World Cup and the Olympics are approaching. The former is coming here, while both events are global spectacles. As Kamlager-Dove stated, ‘If we want to make America great again, we need to encourage manufacturing in America.’ It’s crucial for us to collaborate with our counterparts across the aisle to emphasize this message to the current administration.

Kamlager-Dove additionally urged the most influential figures within the industry to champion Los Angeles’s cause.

She pointed out that often people focus on A-list celebrities, assuming they’ll be fine because of their power to keep productions in this location due to their influence. However, if there’s no one with such influence, the production may move to New Zealand or Mexico instead, which could negatively impact us.

Representative Luz Rivas, a Democrat representing the San Fernando Valley, pointed out that there are numerous claims on federal funds, as wildfires in Southern California have added urgency to other pressing issues.

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Representative Luz Rivas, from the San Fernando Valley and a member of the Democratic party, mentioned that there are many demands for federal funding, with the recent wildfires in Southern California contributing to the importance of addressing other urgent matters.

Rivas explained that each aspect is crucial indeed, given there are numerous factors carrying equal significance. As lawmakers, we often engage in disputes. However, it’s essential to recognize that these issues concern employment, and if positions are eliminated, residents may choose to depart from the state.

In Los Angeles, it’s not just Stay in L.A. pushing for increased tax incentives; groups like the California Production Coalition and Keep California Rolling are also urging lawmakers to take action. Pamela Buzick Kim, who is both co-president of California United and a co-founder of Stay in L.A., emphasized the need to remain competitive when making decisions about where to locate.

She explained, “We’re not striving to offer the top tax benefits compared to everywhere else since our economy isn’t similar to many of those locations. Our goal is for our tax incentives to be sufficient so that we remain part of the discussion.

According to Lindsay Dougherty, the head of Teamsters’ Local 399, it’s crucial to maintain a relentless approach, remaining “persistent” and “assertive,” and never backing down from the struggle.

Dougherty stated, ‘If we let things slide even slightly, that’s the amount of time and resources diverted from creating an infrastructure workforce outside of California. That’s when issues arise.’ In simpler terms, he warned, ‘Slacking off a bit leads to problems.’

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2025-04-07 06:16