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California Gov.Gavin Newsomis calling for studios to “walk the walk” and avoid filming in states that have limited abortion rights following thereversal ofRoe v. Wadein June.
On Wednesday, the governor shared an open letter onTwitterand as a full-page ad inVarietythat encouraged studios to film in California rather than instates that are taking away reproductive freedom.
“Over the past several years, the legislatures of states like Georgia and Oklahoma have waged a cruel assault on essential rights,” he wrote. “Now, in the wake of the Supreme Court’s abhorrent decision overturningRoe v. Wade, those same states are quickly moving to strip reproductive freedom.”
“As you know, their attacks are not occurring in secret, and the harm they inflict is not the result of mere carelessness,” he continued. “On the contrary, they are carrying out these attacks brazenly and with the intent to cause pain in the communities they target — many of whom are essential to the success of your industry.”
Newsom added that studios have “a responsibility to take stock of your values — and those of your employees — when doing business in those states.”
The governor also urged studios to consider moving production to California, which he referred to as the “best place in America to create,” touting the state’s “robust tax credits.”
“California is a freedom state. Freedom to tell your stories. Freedom to access the health services you need, including abortion care,” he shared. “Freedom to love who you love and to ensure that your LGBTQ friends, family and colleagues can proudly be who they are. Freedom is repressive state governments that want to tell you what to believe and threaten you with felonies if you don’t toe their line.”
On Wednesday, Newsom endorsed legislation to extend California’s tax incentives for the film and television industry through 2030, according toVariety.
The bill, SB485, would extend financial support for the film and television industry for an additional five years. The program was already financed until 2025. It would provide $330 million annually if passed, according to the outlet.
The extension is part of Newsom’s goal to bring business to California rather than states that limited abortion rights following the overturning ofRoe v. Wade.
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“As other states roll back peoples' rights, California will continue protecting fundamental freedoms for all and welcome businesses that stand up for their employees,” said Newsom in a statement, perVariety.
He continued, “Extending this program will help ensure California’s world-renowned entertainment industry continues to drive economic growth with good jobs and a diverse, inclusive workforce.”
source: people.com
