When Representative Don Davis passed away in 2007, the state’s film community lost its longtime champion. To honor his legacy, Film Florida created the Don Davis Film Finishing Fund.
Rep. Don Davis fought hard to build the state’s incentive program, so that Florida could regain its stature as a top production destination. In 2007’s session, the state revamped the entire incentive program and renamed it the Don Davis Entertainment Industry Economic Development Act, increasing the incentive to $25 million.
The legislation recognized the importance of the film and entertainment industry to Florida’s economy by building on the previous incentive program and, for the first time, allowing participation by the fast-growing digital media industry, the commercial and music video industry and Florida’s own filmmakers.
On the road becoming a film champion, Don Davis started his political career when he was elected to the Jacksonville City Council in 1987. He was re-elected twice, serving 12 years, including two terms as President. Councilman Davis then ran for the State House of Representatives from District 18 in 1999. He was re-elected three times.
In addition to serving in office, he was very active in giving back to his community. Over the course of four decades, he served on the boards of American Cancer Society, Florida Theatre, The First Tee of Jacksonville, The Players Championship, Gator Bowl Association, American Heart Association, Mandarin Rotary Club, Jacksonville University Council, Jacksonville Jaycees, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, Florida Chamber of Commerce, Deerwood Country Club and more.