2008 House Bill 5841 / Public Act 77

Give subsidies for Michigan film production

Introduced in the House

Feb. 28, 2008

Introduced by Rep. Andy Meisner (D-27)

To authorize a Michigan Business Tax credit of up to 42 percent of a film studio’s expenses for shooting a film or TV show in Michigan. The credits would be refundable, so if their value exceeded a studio's tax liability the state would send them a check for the difference. The bill contains no cap on the aggregate value of the film subsidies.

Referred to the Committee on Commerce

March 11, 2008

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

March 12, 2008

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that revises details of the proposed subsidy but does not change the substance of the bill as previously described.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Amendment offered by Rep. Andy Meisner (D-27)

To clarify a provision establishing compensation to employees of individuals under a personal services contract as one of the factors in determining the size of proposed refundable tax credits.

The amendment passed by voice vote

Passed in the House 108 to 0 (details)

Received in the Senate

March 13, 2008

Referred to the Committee on Commerce and Tourism

March 19, 2008

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

March 20, 2008

Passed in the Senate 37 to 1 (details)

To authorize a Michigan Business Tax credit of up to 42 percent of a film studio’s expenses for shooting a film or TV show in Michigan. The credits would be refundable, so if their value exceeded a studio's tax liability the state would send them a check for the difference. The bill contains no cap on the aggregate value of the film subsidies.

Signed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm

April 7, 2008