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Growing Our Creative Industry

The creative sector holds a unique place in our American culture. Creative works are one of our most precious exports, consistently generating a positive trade balance with other countries. In 2012, the economic contributions of U.S. copyright industries reached new heights, contributing more than $1 trillion to the GDP, according to the International Intellectual Property Alliance. Our movies, music, computer software, books and many other copyright dependent industries cannot be duplicated anywhere else in the world. The Caucus strongly supports the continued growth of the creative sector and seeks to educate the public of its importance to the future of our economy, innovation and competitiveness.

Protecting Domestic Film Production

Film and television production is one of America's most important industries. According to industry estimates, film and TV production support a national community of 2.1 million workers, from costume designers to make-up artists, stunt performers to set builders, writers to actors, accountants to dry cleaners.

But we face the challenge of foreign governments luring away production by offering increasingly attractive incentives. These "runaway" productions are a blow to our economy and our American creators.

The Caucus supports proposals to ensure film and TV productions remain in the U.S., including the federal domestic film and TV production tax incentive. This important proposal is aimed at counteracting overseas production incentives and keeping these well-paying jobs in the U.S.

U.S. - China Film Agreement

U.S. studios and independent filmmakers need access to growing markets around the world. Right now, China has the second largest film market in the world, with 10-12 new cinema screens built every day. China has also emerged as one of the largest consumer markets for American films. A recent agreement between the two countries is an unprecedented step towards spurring the growth of American films in China and will help U.S. creators enter into one of the most important markets in the world. Full implementation of the agreement will also help strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Chinese film industries. This agreement will be reviewed in 2017 to ensure it is working as envisioned.