- Published: 16 May 2013
Films and television programs filmed in Illinois such as “The Dark Knight,” “Barbershop” and “Chicago Fire” have put the state on the world’s stage. State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D-Chicago 5th) aims to keep Illinois in the spotlight with a plan to expand the state’s film production tax credit.
The senator was joined in Executive Committee today by actor Billy Zane and producer Bob Teitel. Zane, known for his roles in “Titanic” and “The Phantom,” and Teitel, producer of “Barbershop,” were in the Capitol to support Senate Bill 1816. Both Illinois natives testified in committee today.
“I have been fortunate to shoot several films in Illinois, and I want to continue to do more films here,” Teitel said. “This bill will help make that possible.”
“This bill is about Illinois jobs and competitiveness. This bill is about labor,” Zane said. “It benefits film producers and actors, but it also creates many blue-collar jobs. This will stop the drain of talent from Illinois to the coasts, keeping actors in Illinois to raise their families.”
The tax credit has been successful in drawing filmmakers to Illinois. These films hire hundreds of Illinoisans to perform and do behind-the-scenes work. In 2012, Illinois used the credit to attract $184 million in spending in the state.
“This legislation will bring jobs to Illinois. We have seen it work, and the film industry will continue to bring good-paying jobs to Chicago and the state,” Van Pelt said. “Illinois has a talented workforce and beautiful locations for films to use. This legislation will make sure that the world continues to see our state on film.”
Illinois is currently at a competitive disadvantage to other states that offer more generous tax credits, such as New York, Georgia and Louisiana.
The legislation passed out of committee and now awaits a vote on the Senate floor.
