Gov. Snyder signs film incentive measure

LANSING (AP) -- Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation Tuesday to allow more flexibility and smaller credits within Michigan's downsizing movie and film incentive program. The new law gives the Michigan Film Office the ability to negotiate the size of the credits it offers to movie, television and video game producers. The incentives offered can be lower than the 42 percent subsidy now provided automatically when a project is approved for credits. Supporters of the change say the current system may result in more costs to taxpayers than necessary for some projects. More flexibility also might allow the state to target projects that will result in jobs for Michigan residents. The state's movie and film credit program will be capped at $25 million in the fiscal year that starts in October. The state's current incentive program is not capped and offers some of the most generous credits in the nation. Snyder signed nine other bills Tuesday, including two that allow the state to offer specially designed motorcycle license plates to military veterans and current National Guard members. Another bill allows Michigan taxpayers to pay their income taxes by using a credit or debit card. ---------- The bills signed Tuesday are Senate Bill 383; SB 214 and House Bill 4359; SB 24; SB 28; HB 4315; HB 4666; HB 4727; HB 4759 and SB 223. Published: Thu, Jul 14, 2011