Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1545125
18 C I N E M O N T A G E G U I L D N E W S C alifornia State Assemblymember Nick Schultz told Editors Guild members he is optimistic that a proposed standalone post-production tax incentive has a chance to become law with $100 million in annual funding. And he thanked union members for their po- litical activism which has "made a real difference" in helping the bill through the legislative process thus far. Schultz delivered the remarks April 25 during "Spring Into Action," an event hosted by Local 700's Political Engagement Committee at the Los Angeles office. The gathering marked a historic first for the Ed- itors Guild: to invite both a sitting California lawmaker and the president of the second largest labor council in the U.S. to speak directly with members at the union hall. Schultz is the author of AB2319, which i n t e n d s t o l e v e l t h e p l a y i n g f i e l d f o r post-production workers by giving incen- tives to picture, sound, and visual effects jobs in California that otherwise do not qualify for the state's broader production incentive programs. Backed by the Califor- nia Post Alliance (CAPA), the bill aims to stem the outflow of post-production jobs to other states and countries. Schultz thanked Local 700 members and non-member allies who wrote more than 3200 advocacy letters, which have suc- cessfully helped the bill clear two assembly committees in Sacramento thus far. "The many letters you've sent to my colleagues have made a real difference," Schultz said. "Elected officials pay attention when constituents speak up. I know because I see those letters coming into my office." N a t i o n a l E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r S c o t t George emphasized the need to amend the bill to ensure it protects good union jobs. PACKED HOUSE 'SPRING INTO ACTION' EVENT BACKS POST TAX PUSH P H OT O : D E V E R I L L W E E K E S Assemblymember Nick Schultz addresses Local 700 members at the Spring Into Action event April 25 in Los Angeles.