Texas Film Production Incentive Bill SB22: $1.5 Billion Boost to Keep Productions Local
In a major move to retain and attract film and TV productions, the Texas House has passed Senate Bill 22 (SB22), allocating $300 million every two years through 2035 — a total of $1.5 billion. The bill aims to reverse the trend of Texas-based stories being filmed in other states with more attractive incentives.
What the SB22 Film Incentive Bill Includes
The new Texas film production incentive bill increases available funding from the current $200 million to $300 million per biennium, offering:
-
Direct cash grants for qualifying productions
-
Up to 25% base incentive, rising to 31% with uplifts
-
A long-term program through fiscal year 2035, providing production stability
This represents a significant step up from the previous cycle and positions Texas as a serious contender in the U.S. media landscape.
Celebrity Support and Industry Impact
Backed by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, SB22 saw high-profile support from Matthew McConaughey, Dennis Quaid, Taylor Sheridan, Woody Harrelson, and more. Their testimonies, along with a promotional campaign during SXSW and social media videos like True to Texas, helped generate momentum.
Groups like Media For Texas, co-founded by Grant Wood and Chase Musslewhite, played a pivotal role in advocating for the bill, pointing out that many iconic Texas stories were filmed out-of-state due to better incentives.
Why Texas Needs This Bill
According to Musslewhite, the bill isn’t just about attracting new productions — it’s about stopping Texas stories from being filmed in places like Georgia, New Mexico, and Louisiana.
“We don’t need to dominate. We just need to stay in the game,” he explained, citing how Georgia offers $1 billion in annual tax credits and New York provides $700 million.
See More ...
Economic and Infrastructure Growth
The bill has already spurred interest in major developments:
-
Taylor Sheridan is eyeing new sound stages in Fort Worth in collaboration with Ross Perot Jr.
-
The Chosen is now shooting at Camp Hoblitzelle in Midlothian
-
Austin Film Society and Troublemaker Studios continue to anchor the Austin production scene
Planned projects across Texas are awaiting this bill’s confirmation to move forward, while discussions are ongoing to partner with the Georgia Film Academy and create a Texas-based workforce training program.
Next Steps for SB22
The bill, passed by a 112–26 vote, now returns to the Senate and is expected to land on Governor Greg Abbott’s desk, who has until June 1 to sign it. He’s expressed support, making final approval likely.
“This victory belongs to every crew member, storyteller, and advocate who believes in the power of Texas-made media,” said Media For Texas.
Source : deadline.com
