The Republican-dominated state House voted Wednesday to end the $50 million in annual incentives for the film industry, but the fate of the bill is still uncertain.
The Senate may push back when it comes to a vote, and Gov. Rick Snyder has said that he would prefer the program be phased out gradually rather than axed, Kathleen Gray of the Detroit Free Press reports.
The vote on Wednesday was largely along party lines, 58-51, the Freep reports. The bill would end incentives Oct. 1.
Republicans say the program is a waste of money and hasn't achieved its goal.
But House Minority Leader Tim Greimel, D-Auburn Hills, said the incentives have provided one of the best showcases for Michigan's treasures, the Freep reports.
"Through the very modest $50 million, we receive hundreds of millions of commercial advertising value in terms of showcasing the great treasures our state has to offer, as well as media attention to the state," he said, according to the Freep. "The Advertising and marketing is nearly priceless."
