Catskill Mountainkeeper Ramsay Adams (podium) with (L-R) Gunther, Hein, Rejto, in the
Michelson II soundstage in Middletown
MIDDLETOWN – A state law that raises the tax credit for filming in the Mid-Hudson region to 40 percent, the same as in the metropolitan area, won the praises of area officials on Tuesday as leaders from Orange, Ulster and Sullivan counties gathered at the Michelson II soundstage in Middletown.
Until now, the region was entitled to only 30 percent tax credits, placing it at a disadvantage to the New York City market.
Hudson Valley Film Commission Chairman Laurent Rejto said the new law will change the face of the film industry in the Hudson Valley.
“It will create a steady demand for services in hospitality, promote
the regional nationally and around the globe, increase opportunities so
industry members don’t need to travel away from the region,”
Rejto said. “It will also create jobs for union members who live
here as well as students looking to grow in the film industry.”
Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D, Forestburgh) was credited with shepherding the tax credit bill through Albany and ensuring that the governor sign it.
Ulster County Executive Michael Hein, who first proposed the expanded tax credit almost two years ago, also won praise. He said the impact of the expanded tax credit would be “transformational.”
“The film industry is alive and well in the region,” Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus proclaimed.
