FILM TAX CREDIT FOR ADDITIONAL UPSTATE COUNTIES SIGNED INTO LAW

Senator George Amedore today announced his legislation (S.6987) to extend the New York State Film Production Tax Credit to additional upstate counties, including Greene and Ulster Counties in the 46th Senate District, has been signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

“The film production tax credit has been successful in encouraging production outside of the studio zone in New York City because the additional costs can be offset by the credit,” said Senator George Amedore. “But many upstate counties, including Ulster and Greene, that weren’t included in the program found themselves at a disadvantage when it came to competing with surrounding counties to attract companies to film there. These areas have so much to offer: beautiful scenery, natural resources, and convenient location. Now, this tax credit will provide an even greater incentive for companies to do business in these counties, to the benefit of our local economies."

The 2013-14 State Budget created an additional ten percent Film Production Tax Credit for production companies who film in forty Upstate counties. In 2015, two counties – Albany and Schenectady – were added. This legislation adds additional counties that are outside the New York City studio zone, but were previously ineligible for the tax credit.

“Too many counties were being shut out of a program that has proven successful in other parts of the state. By extending the film tax credit, we are leveling the playing field and will ensure that more counties – particularly in the Capital Region and the Hudson Valley -- can take advantage of and benefit from this program, and I am grateful the Governor has signed this bill into law,” said Senator George Amedore.

The expansion of the tax credit, which has become Chapter 420 of the laws of 2016, will take effect immediately.

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