JUNEAU -- Some Alaska filmmakers and film equipment providers spoke against a bill that would extend Alaska's film tax credit program.
Film industry executives, union leaders and the state film office have previously provided glowing reviews of the program to a House Finance subcommittee considering SB23, a plan extending the program for 10 years.
Mark Brinster, who runs a Homer-based production company, says the tax credit program sends Alaska money out of state without laying the groundwork for a permanent industry. Jerry LaVine's Anchorage company rents film equipment, and he says a lack of transparency has made the program's success impossible to accurately measure.
The subcommittee is scheduled to continue discussion Friday.
By AUSTIN BAIRD
Associated Press