May Recap
On May 5th, the Florida Legislature brought this year's legislative session to close. For those following along, session was a rollercoaster ride for those entrenched within tourism and economic development -- two sectors directly impacted by Film & Digital Media.
At the start of Legislative Session, the Florida House filed HB 5, a sweeping economic-focused bill that included the Florida Office of Film and Entertainment (OFE). The scope of HB 5 is too large to dissect here, pertinent to the Film industry, the bill intended to close the State Film Commission, and end our industry sales tax exemption program... a program used by thousands of projects, 85% of which are small locally owned business with 5 or fewer full-time employees. Despite a herculean effort by Film Florida, Film Tampa Bay, as well as Film Commissions from across the state, HB 5 ultimately passed. The end result is complex but does have a few silver linings.
The Florida Office of Film and Entertainment will no longer exist under the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, which is now renamed the Department of Commerce. As part of HB 5, there is a transition phase between now and December 1, 2023. Leadership at the Department of Commerce acknowledge that the tasks and services executed by the OFE are still needed. While the name "Florida Office of Film and Entertainment" is going away, the goal is to have their services still provided under the Department of Commerce.
On a more positive note, thanks to Film Florida and their Government Relations Team, the Entertainment Industry Sales Tax Exemption Program was saved, preventing a significant tax increase for the countless small business that work and support Film & Entertainment. This is a huge win, enough credit can't be given to Film Florida.
"The 2023 Legislative Session was extremely challenging, but we are thankful for the continued support and efforts from Representative Dana Trabulsy. Our Government Relations team of Slater Bayliss and Sarah Suskey also worked tirelessly throughout the session under difficult circumstances. The positive outcomes that came from session are a direct result of time, energy and effort from many people working to help and protect our industry." - John Lux, Executive Director, Film Florida
Film Tampa Bay was also focused on another legislative priority HB 1305, referred to as the "Temporary Airport" bill. This legislation would streamline the process and reduce red tape in securing permits for landing a helicopter at a non-traditional landing area for non-emergencies. While this may seem like an odd issue to take up, it had become increasingly difficult to get a permit to land a helicopter for production. Thanks to this legislation, the time frame for permitting has been reduced from 90+ days to 30 days. Surprisingly, this was an immensely difficult bill to pass, and would not have been possible were it not for our own Governmental Relations team at RSA Consulting, and our bill sponsor and champion, Rep Dana Trabulsy.
"With the passage of HB 1305, we anticipate a positive impact on the film industry, driving economic growth, creating job opportunities, and enhancing the state's cultural footprint on the big screen. This bill language includes much-needed support and efficiency for both local filmmakers and larger production companies who come into the state and generate considerable revenue for Florida businesses." - Rep. Dana Trabulsy
For those who haven't walked the halls of the legislature or spent countless hours taking hundreds of meetings and calls with elected officials, it can be hard to truly understand the, at times, Sisyphean task of passing or opposing legislation. With that said, I am immensely proud of our fight this year, and while not all positive, this has been the most successful legislative session in the 10-year history of Film Tampa Bay. The biggest takeaway should be the importance of Film Florida, and why you should be a member. As a dear friend likes to say, "You must be present to win." I hope you will consider joining Film Florida and lending us your voice and support for next legislative session.
FTB presents The Flying Ace Sun, June 18 3pm Tampa Theatre
You don't want to miss this one-of-a-kind event! It's a 1926 silent film to be played in a 1926 movie palace, Tampa Theatre, accompanied by a Live Organ. Sunday, June 18 at 3pm, join us for this Juneteenth Celebration and tribute to 20th century filmmaker Richard E. Norman.
A special Q&A led by Tampa Bay History Center's Fred Hearns will take place after the film, with an influential panel of guests including filmmaker Tamika Lamison, playwright Layon Gray, and Norman Studios Silent Film Museum, Inc.'s Barbara Wingo and Devan Stuart Lesley.
PLUS, the first 150 to arrive receive a complementary popcorn and soda.
Thank you for attending The Throwback!
This was a first-look screening of Tampa Bay filmed comedy, The Throwback. Free community screening to a sold out audience!
This Month’s Spotlight
The Tampa Bay Arts & Education Network presents exceptional artistic, cultural and educational programs, encouraging the pursuit of intellectual achievement and the joy of learning by programming (2) 24/7 local cable television channels, producing relevant original content, operating websites to promote the programs and expand access to content and organizing a variety of educational events in support of the these endeavors.
Stay tuned for more about Tampa Bay Arts & Education Network.
Now Streaming! Loose Framing Episode 22: Two Stories Media
Available on Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts and Podbean
Notable Productions in May:
TV Shows:
Wink TV - Streetball with Kenny Dobbs
Commercial Campaigns:
Dick's Sporting Goods
Are you still paying sales tax on your Florida Production Expenditures?
The Florida Office of Film and Entertainment offers a point-of-sale Sales Tax Exemption to qualified production companies producing content in Florida.
Qualified Florida Expenditures include:
Production equipment rental or purchase
Real estate rental (studio, office, location fees)
Set design and construction
Props
Wardrobe
Computers and software (production related)
You can start saving up to 7.5% in just a few business days! Apply online at www.filminflorida.com.
