Overview
- The Texas House passed SB22, allocating up to $500 million every two years for film incentives, with a total of $2.5 billion projected over the next decade.
- The bill includes a 25% grant for productions spending at least $1.5 million and additional incentives for projects in underutilized areas or employing veterans.
- Supporters argue the program will boost Texas' economy and make the state competitive with others like Georgia and New York in attracting productions.
- Critics, including some Republican lawmakers, oppose the bill, citing concerns over taxpayer funding for Hollywood and potential political influence.
- The legislation now awaits Governor Greg Abbott's signature, with discussions ongoing about potentially reducing the fund to $300 million per biennium.