Alaska film tax credit program comes to end

JUNEAU — It’s a wrap for Alaska’s film tax credit program.

Legislation repealing the program has been signed into law by Gov. Bill Walker.

Walker, in a release, said he supports the film industry in Alaska but the state is facing unprecedented financial times. He says it’s hard to justify continuing the program at a time when at least two trooper stations are being closed.

The program had been scheduled to expire in 2018, and Walker said he didn’t see oil prices rebounding before then. Alaska relies heavily on oil revenues to fund government operations.

Walker’s office says the state commerce department still will provide production assistance by connecting directors and producers with Alaska contractors and location scouts.