California post-production workers lobby for dedicated tax credit as jobs slip overseas

Over the past decade, California’s dominance in post-production has eroded, with its national share dropping from 53% to 42% as editing, sound and visual-effects migrate to New York, Canada and the United Kingdom. In response, Assemblymember Nick Schultz introduced AB 2319, a proposal that would grant a 35-50% tax credit on qualified post-production spending and would require roughly $100 million in state funds each year.

Advocates such as the California Post Alliance, the Motion Picture Editors Guild and IATSE Local 700 argue the incentive is needed to halt the outflow of jobs, while critics like Tulane economist Patrick Button question its effectiveness. Veteran Foley artist Alyson Dee Moore recently retired after losing enough hours for union health benefits, and editor Austin Scott now earns under $50 000 after a once lucrative career.

Economists note the U.S. lacks federal incentives, putting it at a disadvantage against foreign jurisdictions. Proponents remain hopeful that California’s talent pool will eventually draw post-production work back to the state.