Bill Would Sweeten Minn. Film Production Grants

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The board that aims to bring a bit of Hollywood t0 Minnesota could have more to offer film and television production companies if some lawmakers get their way.

Legislation due to be introduced Monday would give the Minnesota Film and TV Board more flexibility in extending grants to producers that film movies, music videos, commercials and other productions. It's part of a jobs program meant to encourage reliance on Minnesota talent, locales and production services.

The bill sponsored by Democratic Sen. Terri Bonoff of Minnetonka would set aside $10 million next year for possible grants. The grants are to reimburse a slice of production costs and vary depending on where in the state the work is done. Her bill would also make Minnesota-set television pilot programs eligible for reimbursement.

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