It’s an interesting question… which at first seemed somewhat problematic- however our government not only eluded a shut down, but also provisioned for film makers and the use of currency.
The following excerpt by David Albert Pierce, Esq from his article “Cinema Law: Can I Film U.S. Currency?” explains it well.
Q: I’ve heard that it is illegal to use U.S. currency in films, though I have seen it in films before. I’ve been using money facsimiles for photography. Though the money looks real, it is watermarked on both sides with a disclaimer saying “not for legal tender.” I am about to shoot a film that requires cash props and wondered if the bills I have break any regulations.
David Albert Pierce, Esq.: Your belief that you cannot film money is incorrect. A law permitting the filming of cash for use in motion pictures is found in the U.S. Code under the topic heading, “Printing and Filming of United States and Foreign Obligations & Securities” (18 USC 504), and it reads as follows: “Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the following are permitted: . . . (3) The making or importation of motion-picture films . . . for projection upon a screen or for use in telecasting of postage and revenue stamps and other obligations and securities of the United States, and postage and revenue stamps, notes, bonds, and other obligations or securities of any foreign government, bank, or corporation.”
For the full article see here.
The information provided here is intended to provide general information and does not constitute legal advice. You should not act or rely on such information without seeking the advice of an attorney and receiving counsel based on your particular facts and circumstances. Many of the legal principles mentioned might be subject to exceptions and qualifications, which are not necessarily noted. Furthermore, laws are subject to change and vary by jurisdiction.
This article reposted from sasik|moon, a legal blog about Entertainment, Business and surviving in Hollywood
Partner of the legal firm sasik|moon, Pawel Sasik is an attorney specializing in entertainment and technology. Pawel has consulted on various multi-million technology development projects ranging in scope from entertainment / social media to professional practice facilitation tools. Some of his projects include, the enterprise grade litigation and transactional tools from RealPractice™ and the social entertainment website yoostar.com™. Pawel’s understanding of technology and law has allowed him to focus on assisting film makers produce and distribute their films through traditional and non-traditional methods. A native of Poland Pawel is fluent in Polish. Pawel holds a Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola Law School Los Angeles and business and music degrees from the University of Southern California and can be often found strumming the guitar or writing a script for relaxation.
