Proponents of a bill to provide a rebate to film and media companies doing business in Indiana say it would help the state cash in on millions of dollars in missed business and keep more Hoosier college graduates at home. Supporters of House Bill 1070 say, since 2016, Indiana has lost out on a minimum of $80 million in potential film and media-related business because it does not offer incentives like numerous other states. Screenwriter and producer Angelo Pizzo, best known for his work on Hoosiers and Rudy, says the iconic Indiana films wouldn’t be shot here today. “We would be fiscally irresponsible, because in states like Illinois with a 25 percent tax credit and Kentucky with a 25 percent tax credit and Ohio with 30, we would be giving away 30 cents on a dollar if we shot Hoosiers or Rudy in this state,” said Pizzo. “It would be very unfortunate if we had Hoosiers all shot in Ohio,” added Pizzo.
Pizzo and Indianapolis Film Commissioner Theresa Sabatine talked about the bill and why they view it as a jobs and economic development play on this weekend on Inside INdiana business with Gerry Dick.
The bill would provide a rebate for qualified productions spending a minimum of $500,000 in Indiana. It is authored by Rep. David Frizzell (R-93) and co-authored by Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-30), Rep. Kevin Mahan (R-31) and Rep. Ryan Hatfield (D-77).
Supporters believe Indiana has lost out on tens of millions of dollars in potential media business and point to a Netflix limited series about famed Hoosier businesseswoman and entrepreneur Made C.J. Walker as a prime example. The project was shot in Canada.
Pizzo and Sabatine are also quick to point out they believe more film and media production in the state will keep talented Hoosier college graduates at home.
Approximately 19 Indiana colleges and universities offer film and media programs, but it is estimated that more than 60 percent of those grads leave the state.
Supporters estimate there are currently more than 600 production-related business in Indiana that could benefit from the incentive, but stress a wide range of industries—from interactive technology and transportation to hospitality and construction—would also see positive impact.