A.  The district, through the board, shall establish plans, policy, and marketing strategies to provide for the development and expansion of the film, video, and television production industry in the district and for attracting visitors to the district.

B.  The district, through the board, shall:

(1)  Develop a plan that shall include a particular focus on attracting the production of film, documentaries, cable television shows, regional and national commercials, corporate training films, and visitors to the district.

(2)  Provide for the preparation and distribution of promotional and informational materials, electronic and otherwise, providing information on the benefits of producing film and television projects in the district.

(3)  Provide location coordinators for direct contact with major studio executives, producers, and production companies to encourage them to locate production projects in the district.

(4)  Identify residents of the district who have experience and skills in the film, video, and television industry or experience or skills that are needed by or useful to such industry and seek to create job and business opportunities for them.

(5)  Serve as an informational clearinghouse and provide technical assistance to individuals and entities engaged in film and television production by:

(a)  Compiling, producing, publishing, and updating a comprehensive directory on sites, facilities, vendors, services, and other resources in the district available for film, video, and television production.

(b)  Maintaining and making available current information on tax incentives and permitting practices and procedures in Louisiana.

(c)  Providing site location scouting assistance, as well as location of equipment and props as needed.

(d)  Assisting Louisiana filmmakers and television producers in identifying and promoting film and television production opportunities.

(e)  Working with the office of the lieutenant governor, the Department of Economic Development, and other state, local, and parish agencies in assisting film and television producers with obtaining necessary permits.

(6)  Assist in obtaining permission to film at public and private locations.

(7)  Participate in regional, national, and international film and video and television promotional marketplaces.

(8)  Sponsor workshops and other learning opportunities on filmmaking, television production, or both, including their legal and financial aspects.

(9)  Assist in the promotion of tourism within the district.

C.  The district, through the board, may enter into contracts, agreements, or cooperative endeavors with the state and its political subdivisions or political corporations and with any public or private association, corporation, business entity, or individual.

D.  The district, through the board, shall have the power to sue and be sued, to make capital improvements, and to do all things necessary for the promotion, advertisement, and publication of information relating to film, video, television, and visitor attractions within its jurisdiction.  However, the district shall not exercise any function which results in competition with local retail businesses or enterprises.

E.  In order to carry out the functions of the district, the district may employ such personnel as may be necessary to accomplish its functions and for which funds are made available and may establish their duties and fix their compensation.

F.  The district shall not be deemed to be an instrumentality of the state for purposes of La. Const. Art. X, § 1(A) .

Acts 2007, No. 46, §1, eff. July 1, 2007.