Introduced yesterday by the Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review was a series of trailer bills (SB 132) put into print.

We are excited to share that our $750million/annual funding for our California Film and Television Jobs Program is included in it! This means that the Governor’s proposal on funding now has the support of both houses of the Legislature — which is a critical next step to move the money forward. Our lobbyists have informed us that we expect to see these trailer bills move through the budget committee JUNE 25 which will make us eligible to be heard on the floor for a final vote. To be clear, that finish line is still out in front of us but we are getting closer.

Up next is a hearing tomorrow before the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee on the larger bill (Zbur AB 1138) that contains the programmatic changes. EUC will be there to underscore our support with our presence. This bill still must pass out of two committees and be voted on by the full Assembly and Senate — which we hope to see next week.

We know from the prior votes within each body that there is widespread support, but it is still critical that we have the programmatic changes go into effect alongside the money next month. That is and continues to be our goal to secure the funding and create the greatest number of jobs through our programmatic changes.  

It is YOUR activism and efforts that has gotten us to this point. As we continue through this complicated legislative process, our Entertainment Union Coalition will be the first to let you know the complete facts of what is happening in Sacramento and next steps. We are going to get this across the finish line.

Stay tuned for more updates!