Entertainment Union Coalition
Over the last year and a half, the Entertainment Union Coalition (EUC) has been hard at work on our “Keep California Rolling” campaign, committed to improving California’s entertainment industry tax incentive program. I am pleased to say that, with the support of the membership, we crossed the finish line on Wednesday, July 2, when Gov. Newsom signed the budget trailer bill, increasing the annual tax incentives for production in California to $750 million. Thank you to everyone who submitted letters of support, called your Assemblymembers, and attended rallies.
The next day, the State Senate passed AB 1138. This bill made long overdue changes to the program, granting us the ability to be more competitive with other states and countries. The now expanded program funding for California is a huge win, and will bring back jobs for not only our members, but the small business owners and community allies who support us in what we do best: make magic happen on screen.
Eligible productions are now immediately able to apply for the tax incentives, and we anticipate an influx of work in the coming months. Please be sure to report your jobs to the office or invite us to visit your set, as this information will be crucial for protecting our work here.
This year marks another remarkable milestone: the 95th anniversary of IATSE Local 695—and every single one of you is part of that legacy. Since September 1930, our members have been at the forefront of technology in audio, video, and projection. From magnetic tape to digital workflows, from boom poles to wireless microphones, from video tape to digital video projection, video recording, and playback, our members have developed innovations that are still in use today.
The work we do in organizing, educating, and innovation—is shaping the future of Local 695 as we look ahead to our 100th year.
Let’s keep building it together.
In Solidarity,
Scott Bernard
Business Representative