Governor Diverts Film Credit Money to Job Training
(released
7/19/2019)
By Kimberly Burke
Empire State Entertainment Diversity Job Training Development Fund has been created and plans to train 100 students from diverse backgrounds each year to work in the Entertainment Industry. Governor Cuomo announced July 11, 2019 that $1 million a year will be taken from the New York State Film Production and Post Production Tax Credit Programs and go towards training and workforce development.
"New York's strength is in its diversity, and we are always looking for ways to enhance it," Governor Cuomo said in a release from his office. "This first-in-the-nation program will provide new resources to propel us toward becoming the most inclusive entertainment industry in the country, while continuing to produce amazing film and TV productions."
The legislation charges Empire State Development with creating regulations for the fund and administering grants to create the program. The Empire State Development will solicit input and gather suggestions from the film industry, educational community and public to decide the needed jobs in the industry and ways to make the program impactful.
Recruitment will begin in August for the new 14 week program that will train students to work in union trade crafts such as property, carpentry and electric. IATSE International Vice President and Local 52 President John Ford said, "Local 52 is excited for our training program with New York State and Bronx Community College. These new programs can help ensure a steady stream of qualified, diverse workers to service the growing needs of production well into the future. Thanks to Governor Cuomo and the Legislature's support of the film tax credit, the industry is busier than ever before."
Print this article
|