Previously, filming of certain events did not require a use contract and the Executive Director's appointment process was not tied to specific Charter Sections. The daily use fees for film production were not specified at higher rates, and the Film Rebate Project Account was not explicitly allowed to be used for administering and marketing the Film Rebate Program.

The amendment clarifies when filming of a news event does not require a use contract, ties the Executive Director's appointment to Charter Sections 3.100(19) and 4.102(5), allows the Executive Director to approve third-party use of the Film SF logo, increases the daily use fees for film production, and permits the use of funds from the Film Rebate Project Account for program administration and marketing.

The impact includes increased daily use fees for various types of film productions, ranging from still photography to television series. The new rates vary based on the production type and budget. Revenues from these fees are to be deposited into the San Francisco Film Production Fund.

The rationale behind these changes is to develop, promote, and provide economic support to film activities in the city, including giving financial incentives like rebates to qualified film productions that hire economically disadvantaged individuals and paying rebates from the Film Rebate Project Account up to certain limits.

The legislative amendment is ordained by the People of the City and County of San Francisco through the amendment of Chapter 57 of the Administrative Code.

Oversight is provided by allowing the Film Commission to appoint and, with the Mayor, remove the Executive Director, who has significant responsibility over the coordination of Departments and film production activities, and can also approve use of the Film SF logo by third parties.