The news that "Public Enemies", a motion picture starring Johnny Depp, will shoot scenes in Wisconsin means rapid-fire pay-back from a new state tax credit program for the film industry.

"Universal Pictures will provide jobs and spend $20 million during shooting for the film," said Senator Dale Schultz (R-Richland Center). "That money will circulate several times in the local economy and the high-profile "Public Enemies" film will help us attract more film industry projects and the jobs they bring."

The Film Production Services Tax Credit Program passed last session with bipartisan support, giving Wisconsin a new competitive advantage over other states to attract film industry projects.

Many University of Wisconsin graduates work in the film industry. Most will welcome the idea of returning to Wisconsin to practice their profession, even if only temporarily. For example, Michael Mann, the Director for "Public Enemies" is a UW graduate.

"Beautiful historic landmarks in communities like Darlington, Richland Center and Baraboo attracted Michael Mann, and they’ll attract other film directors too," Schultz said.

"As Senate Majority Leader last session, when Senator Ted Kanavas came to me with the tax credit bill he authored, we never dreamed it would pay off this quickly," said Schultz.

In "Public Enemies", Depp will play John Dillinger a bank robber pursued by FBI Special Agent Melvin Purvis (played by Christian Bale) in the 1930's.