New York to fast track production applications as SAG-AFTRA ratifies contract

New York governor Kathy Hochul has directed state agencies to expedite applications for film production in the state, according to a memo published December 6.

"Empire State Development and the Governor’s Office of Motion Picture and Television Development (MPTV) are responsible for attracting and increasing productions through various means including identifying and securing locations throughout the State for production use," she said in the memo. 

"In anticipation of industry union strikes moving toward final agreements, the State is preparing for the return of large-scale productions statewide."

New York state businesses have until December 11 to review the processes by which they make state property and services available to incoming film and TV productions. "New York State Departments, Agencies and Authorities are reminded to remain film friendly to attract and retain productions," Hochul wrote in the memo.

In order to facilitate the fast-track, Hochul has instructed agencies to expedite permits in no more than 10 business days, keep fees and direct personnel costs transparent, maintain an industry point of contact within the agency to handle production requests, and ensure the respective agencies maintain a person or team to act as a liaison to expedite permits, clearances and the provision services.

According to the Governor's office, the motion picture, television and related production industries create over 65,000 jobs annually, and drive $13bn in wages in the state. Due to the strike, more than $1bn in economic activity and thousands of jobs were lost to the state, according to the memo.

Hochul was previously seen at both SAG and WGA strikes. In a post on X (formerly Twitter): Hochul said: "Congratulations to members of SAG-AFTRA on the ratification of their new contract! It's critical that workers in all industries are fairly paid for their labor, and I was proud to stand with members on the picket line earlier this year."