May 18, 2012
LOS ANGELES, CA – The Directors Guild of America issued the following statement in support of the introduction of legislation to extend Section 181, a federal tax provision which prevents film and television production from migrating overseas.
"In 2001, the Directors Guild of America brought the problem of runaway film and television production to Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA). At the time, the entertainment industry was hard-hit by productions moving overseas to take advantage of tax incentives. Congressman Berman, recognizing the impact on our industry and his constituents, acted immediately. That year, he, along with Congressman David Dreier (R-CA) introduced 'The United States Independent Film and Television Act of 2001.'
"That bill gathered numerous co-sponsors and both Congressmen reintroduced it in 2003.
Throughout those years, Congressmen Berman and Dreier were steadfast in their commitment and determined to secure passage. They achieved success when it was incorporated as what became Section 181 in the 'American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.'
"With the introduction yesterday of their legislation to extend Section 181, Congressmen Berman and Dreier have reaffirmed their support for one of America’s signature creative industries and the men and women who work in it.
"On behalf of its 15,000 members, the Directors Guild of America thanks Congressmen Berman and Dreier and greatly values their work with us on this problem for over a decade.”