The Michigan Film Incentive suffers from the shortcomings of MEGA and other MEDC programs, but the size of its refundable tax credits risks massive wealth transfers from Michigan businesses to film production companies, many of which are based outside the state. The Michigan Treasury may write checks equal to $150 million in 2010.[210] This is a significant sum in any year, let alone one in which the state is facing a massive deficit, and there is good chance that these transfers are, on balance, economically counterproductive.
[210] Matthew Miller and Kathryn Prater, "Film Incentive Fans Urge Lawmakers to Keep Credits," Lansing State Journal, http://www.lansing statejournal.com/article/20090819/NEWS01/908190321 (accessed August 30, 2009).