In regard to the possibility of a revival of the movie studio bill and tax credits, your repeated analysis calling this “handouts to Hollywood” rings nicely with many readers. But it fails to impart any understanding of the industry and its benefits.
The fact is, movie and TV productions simply go to the states that provide the best incentives. We either play or sit out the game. Sitting out would be a tragedy given all we have to offer.
You cannot find a more similar comparison than Hawaii and Nevada in terms of reliance on a robust visitor industry to power the economy. Much has been written about good-paying jobs and educational opportunities, but I’d like to share an angle that appears to be overlooked: tourism promotion.
Once the industry comes here, they will exploit the endless l