My Plan for the Coming Year
 
So, which way is the best way to go.  I don't believe the two approaches are mutually exclusive.  We can begin with the Whole Hog approach -- and if it doesn't seem to be working, make whatever adjustments are needed to get the an new, improved tax incentive program passed.  Here's the plan that I think will work best over the next six months.
 
A.) Develop a bold, comprehensive tax incentive program  that will make Missouri competitive with the leading film production states.  This would include, as I pointed out in a previous article: a higher tax credit (back to at least 50%); a higher annual cap on the tax credit (preferably unlimited); and an expansion of the types of expenses that qualify for the tax credit.
 
B.) Present this plan to the two gubernatorial candidates and try to sell them on it.  Present it to key legislators, as well --  those who favor the film tax credit, those who oppose it, and those who are on the fence.  Get feedback, try to convince the fence-sitters, work out necessary compromises with the opponents.  Enlist members of the film and video communities throughout the state attend candidate forums and other events to present the plan to legislators and extract their promises during the campaign.
 
C.) After the election is over, make any adjustments that need to be made and hammer out an incentive program that has a better chance of getting through the legislature in 2009.
 
I'm currently working with the Legislative Committee of the Missouri Motion Media Association (MOMMA).  I'm sure many of you have ideas of your own about how to jump-start the MO film industry next year.  Many of you also may have contacts with any leaders in state and local government, or in the private sector.  I'd love to hear your ideas and take advantage of any community leaders you may know who might be able to help in these efforts.  Please e-mail me at michael_ketcher@yahoo.com .