Advocacy Groups Sign on to Film Tax Credit Opposition Letter

NEVADA - Today, nearly 40 Nevada organizations signed on to a letter opposing film tax credits. Addressed to members of the Nevada Legislature, the letter comes as Gov. Joe Lombardo is expected to call a special session in the coming days. Though the special session agenda is not yet set, media reports suggest it is highly likely that a renewed attempt to expand the state’s film tax credit program will be included. The Institute for a Progressive Nevada has also launched a website with information about the film tax credits and the potential harm they pose.

Shelbie Swartz, Executive Director of Institute for a Progressive Nevada, issued the following statement:

“At a time of economic uncertainty, Nevadans need legislation that will help them, not some of the largest media conglomerates in the country. Study after study has shown how film tax credits are a race to the bottom. More than that, these transferable tax credits go a step beyond, letting corporations take public money to the bank for almost no return on that investment. Nevada should be bold in diversifying its economy. But being bold shouldn’t require being reckless, too.”

Dawn Etcheverry, President, Nevada State Education Association, issued the following statement:

“While Nevada’s students and educators worry about where their next meal will come from, our leaders are focused on feeding the rich with a massive $1.65 billion Hollywood handout. Calling a Special Session to build movie studios for wealthy executives is incredibly tone deaf given the real needs of our educators, students, and communities. Nevada’s leaders are failing to meet the moment with this fiscally irresponsible and politically indefensible policy. We should be prioritizing schools and SNAP over studios. Educators have done the homework. Film tax credits are flashy, but fiscally flimsy. The return on investment is poor, the jobs are fleeting, and the costs come at the expense of schools, students, and Nevada’s future.”

Andrew Clarke, Revenue Coalition Manager, New Day Nevada, issued the following statement:

“Nevadans are facing uncertainty, and the cost to thrive is too high. This is not a political fight- it is a reminder that the priority is to invest in the people who make our state extraordinary. Teachers, healthcare workers, and our hardworking families need our leaders to put their needs over the needs of billionaire studios.“

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About Institute for a Progressive Nevada: Institute for a Progressive Nevada, through strategic communication efforts, educates, empowers, and engages Nevada voters to build a state where everyone has a fair opportunity to succeed.