Call to Action: Virginia Film Incentives

Dear Member,

We are reaching out regarding a matter that directly impacts Virginians in the film and television industry. It’s critical now more than ever to contact your elected representatives and voice support for film incentives to ensure the continued growth of our work in Virginia. Your voice can make a real difference!

Two bipartisan bills have been introduced in the Virginia Legislature. SB1179  is the Senate Bill from Senator Ghazala Hashmi and HB2108 is the House Bill from Delegate Charniele Herring. These bills aim to increase film incentives and are currently under review by committee.

One of the most effective ways to advocate for film incentives is to contact your elected representatives. Here’s how you can take action:

1. Call and Write Your Elected Officials

a. Visit Who's My Legislator to find your Virginia Legislators and reach out! Let them know you are a constituent, why film incentives are important to you and your livelihood, and how as a Virginia resident you want to be able to work at home rather than travel to other states. We also encourage you to personalize your letter with your own experiences and stories. Remember to be positive and kind. Let us know if you need any assistance with crafting your outreach. 

b. Follow-up with your senator about SB1179 or your delegate about HB2108 a week after your initial outreach. If you previously called, send a follow-up email. If you previously emailed, give their office a phone call. It’s important to stay fresh in their minds. 

Call and Write Your Elected Officials

2. Support SB1179 by Contacting the Senate Finance Resources Subcommittee

a. Contact Senators Lucas, Locke, Deeds, and McDougle, who serve on the subcommittee reviewing this bill, and encourage them to support SB1179. Even if they aren’t your senators, we encourage you to reach out!

• Senator Lucas: senatorlucas@senate.virginia.gov
• Senator Locke: senatorlocke@senate.virginia.gov
• Senator Deeds: senatordeeds@senate.virginia.gov
• Senator McDougle: senatormcdougle@senate.virginia.gov

3. Support HB2108 with a Public Comment

a. Visit the House’s public comment page, scroll down to HB2108 and to express your support!

4. Encourage Others to Join In

a. The more voices they hear, the more likely they are to take action! Share this with others in the industry.

We truly appreciate your support. Feel free to cc wma@sagaftra.org on any letters sent to your representatives.

If you have questions, please reach out to wma@sagaftra.org.