In a significant move to bolster the local film industry, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has signed an executive directive aimed at keeping Hollywood at the forefront of global entertainment production.
This initiative intends to streamline processes for obtaining permits, making it faster and easier for both studios and independent producers to film in Los Angeles.
Key changes include the reduction of costs and enhanced access to iconic filming locations such as the Central Library, Port of LA, and Griffith Observatory.
Mayor Bass emphasized the economic importance of this initiative, stating, “Keeping entertainment production in L.A. means keeping good-paying jobs in L.A., and that’s what we are fighting for.”
Additionally, the Mayor expressed her support for Governor Newsom’s proposal to expand California’s film tax credit, advocating for state legislative action to ensure that California remains competitive against other states and countries that offer attractive incentives for film productions.
Councilmember Adrin Nazarian echoed this sentiment, asserting that maintaining Los Angeles’ status as the entertainment capital is critical to the industry’s future.
The urgency of this initiative stems from the challenges Hollywood has faced in recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated strikes that halted productions across the city.
As the industry started its recovery, January’s wildfires added another layer of disruption, forcing many industry workers to evacuate and even resulting in the loss of homes and businesses.
Long before the wildfires, Hollywood was experiencing a decline in film productions, with many moving to states and regions that provided more favorable tax incentives.
This concerning trend has only accelerated due to recent events, leaving the local film industry struggling to regain its footing.
Notably, several businesses essential to the film production ecosystem have shut down permanently.
Among them is Faux Library Studio Props, a company that had supplied numerous Hollywood sets with props and decor for more than 24 years, which closed its doors earlier this year.
Reviving film production within Los Angeles is critical not only for job retention but also for the local economy.
According to the California Production Coalition, the average location shoot contributes approximately $670,000 and creates 1,500 jobs each day, illustrating the wide-reaching economic impact of film productions in the area.
When productions stay in L.A., they stimulate various sectors of the local economy, benefiting restaurants, retail businesses, salons, hotels, and many more.
Earlier this year, a grassroots “Stay In LA” campaign gained momentum, aiming to promote the importance of keeping film production rooted in Los Angeles.
This campaign has garnered support from major Hollywood figures, including actors, producers, and directors like Keanu Reeves, Alison Brie, and Bette Midler, who have all signed petitions advocating for the cause.
With the new initiative led by Mayor Bass, there is renewed hope for the future of Hollywood and its crucial role in both the film industry and the broader Los Angeles economy.
image source from：https://secretlosangeles.com/los-angeles-rolls-out-new-initiative-to-boost-local-filmmaking/
