June 30, 2010

Senate Committee Approves Lieu Bill Promoting In-State Film Production

“Happy Cow” legislation will help retain jobs in California

(SACRAMENTO) – The Senate Governmental Organization Committee has approved Assembly Bill 1778, a bill by Assemblymember Ted Lieu (D-Torrance), that will curb out-of-state commercial production and help retain jobs in California.

“In the midst of a recession and record high unemployment, it is imperative we do all we can to create and retain jobs,” said Assemblymember Lieu. “One important tool we have is the use of public dollars. Taxpayer funds can and should be directed toward creating good jobs here in California. A great deal of money is spent on promotional commercial productions every year. AB 1778 intends to ensure that those dollars are used for local filming and to support jobs in California.”

AB 1778 stems from a recent advertising campaign promoting California’s dairy industry.  Portions of the “Happy Cow” ad campaign were actually filmed in New Zealand.  The bill would require that all promotional commercials made on behalf of the State of California and paid for wholly or in part with public funds must be produced in California.

“We are enormously pleased with the vote of the Senate committee,” said Barry Broad, representing the California Teamsters Public Affairs Council, sponsor of the bill. “This is a victory for the common sense proposition that California’s public funds should support California industries and California workers.”

AB 1778 is also supported by the City of Los Angeles and several state labor organizations.

The bill moves next to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Assemblymember Ted W. Lieu represents the 53^rd Assembly District, which includes El Segundo, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Lomita, Marina Del Rey, and portions of the City of Los Angeles.

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