Alaskans testify in support of state’s film tax credits

JUNEAU (AP) — Aspiring actors and representatives of companies that support the film industry testified in support of the state’s film tax credit program during a Senate committee hearing Tuesday.

The Senate Finance Committee held a hearing on Sen. Bill Stoltze’s bill to end the state’s film tax credits. The governor’s proposed budget, and the version that passed the House, did not include funding for the program.

The committee heard from 10 Alaskans during the hearing. They talked about the jobs the industry has provided and the need to diversify the state’s economy.

Alaska’s film production tax credit program was created in 2008. It allowed film companies to apply for the credits, and then sell them to companies with a larger tax burden in the state.

The committee took no action.