Yesterday, Michigan Governor Granholm signed sixteen bills that make Michigan the best place in the United States to make movies. The bills offer tax incentives to film, television, and digital media crews to base productions in Michigan and employ Michigan workers. Already, the package is drawing national attention: last year, the Michigan Film Office received six scripts; this year, they've already received over eighty!
Every dollar spent on film production in Michigan is expected to generate another $1.85 to $3.00 in economic benefit to our state's economy. Other states that passed similar packages have had great success in attracting jobs and investment. For example, New Mexico's incentives grew their film industry from $1.5 million to $476 million per year, creating thousands of good new jobs. With our state's spectacular scenery, hardworking people, and the most aggressive movie incentive plan in the nation, Michigan is truly ready for its close-up.
