Tierra Enfermo
UPDATE 5/23/11: Lisa Strout ‘ousted’ from NM will be running the show at the Massachusetts Film Office. The former head of the New Mexico State Film Commission will take over in Mass. next month – Variety
From Capitol Report | New Mexico:
Few things get people across the New Mexico more riled than the state’s film program. Supporters say it generates jobs and works as a great publicity and tourist vehicle. Critics say it’s a scam that benefits a chosen few and drives the state’s budget deeper into debt. Well, next Tuesday in Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Foundation and the Motion Picture Association of New Mexico is hosting a debate on the topic, featuring state lawmakers who support and oppose film incentives – and attendance is free.
Here are the details:
What: New Mexico Film Industry Policy Debate
Hosted by the Rio Grande Foundation and the Motion Picture Association of New Mexico
When: Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Debate at 4:00PM
Reception at 5:00PM
Who: Participants include proponents and opponents of film incentives including Representative Brian Egolf, Senator Sue Wilson Beffort and Representative Dennis Kintigh.
Where: National Hispanic Cultural Center
Bank of America Theater
1701 4th Street, SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Why: As we approach the 2011 Legislative Session, it is clear that film policy in New Mexico is being analyzed and various proposals are on the table which would have a significant impact on the film industry in New Mexico. Therefore, the policy debate will help educate the public on both sides of this important issue.
With the state facing a $400 million deficit, policymakers are looking to cut spending. Opponents have recommended capping or even eliminating the state film program which cost taxpayers $65 million last year in direct outlays. Proponents have recommended maintaining our tax incentive program which has brought the state over $1.2 billion in qualified spending since 2003, with only $223.9 million refunded.
Cost: No cost to attend!
You can show up at the door, but we’d like to get an idea how many people are coming. So, send us an E-mail to let us know you’re coming:
info@riograndefoundation.org.
(Full disclosure: Capitol Report New Mexico and New Mexico Watchdog are owned by the Rio Grande Foundation.)
