Leaders of Hollywood unions and representatives of major studios joined with Jon Voight in penning a letter to Donald Trump calling for expanded film and TV production incentives.
What was left unmentioned in the letter was Trump’s proposal for 100% tariffs on films produced in other countries.
“We appreciate and thank you for the support you have shown the industry,” the letter read. “We also appreciate your understanding of the need to increase domestic film and television production to bring back American jobs and write seeking your support for the inclusion of three film and television priorities in the reconciliation package currently being drafted in Congress.”
The letter was signed by leaders of the Writers Guild of America, the Directors Guild of America, the Independent Film & Television Alliance, the Producers Guild of America, IATSE, SAG-AFTRA, the Teamsters and the Motion Picture Association, among others. Also signing was Sylvester Stallone who, along with Voight, is serving as one of Trump’s “special envoys” to Hollywood.
In addition to outlining the economic impact of the industry, the letter mentions that entertainment has a $15.3 billion trade surplus.
While the letter references the need for a larger federal film and TV incentive to compete with those offered other countries, it focuses on three tax provisions for the upcoming reconciliation bill.
They include extending Section 199 domestic manufacturing and production incentive to film and television productions, expanding Section 181 to a higher, $30 million level of production expenditures, and reinstating the Section 461 ability to carry back losses.
“With your endorsement, these policy initiatives will help preserve and create American jobs, bolster local economies across the country, and ensure America remains the global leader in entertainment production,” the letter stated.
Bloomberg first reported on the letter.
