News Alert -- Gov. Newsom Signs Bill Expanding Film/TV Tax Credits

California Expands Film/TV Tax Credit by $330 Million Over Next Two Years

Increased Funding Targets TV Production, Infrastructure Development and Workforce Diversity

Signed, sealed and delivered! Governor Newsom at Wednesday’s bill signing with (from left) Senator Maria Elana Durazo, Assemblymember Wendy Carillo, Sunset Gower Studios CEO Victor Coleman, Senator Anthony Portantino, CFC Executive Director Colleen Bell and Assemblymember Autumn Burke.

Governor Gavin Newsom was in Los Angeles yesterday (July 21st) to sign bipartisan legislation that expands California’s film/TV tax credit program with an additional $330 million over two years, including $150 million targeted specifically at promoting new soundstage development and workforce diversity. The soundstage incentive provides credits for productions that film in newly renovated or constructed facilities and meet diversity targets that reflect California’s population.

Senate Bill 144 also increases funding for the state’s existing production tax credit with an additional $180 million for TV projects. The funds will be allocated over the next two fiscal years, with $75 million each year targeting recurring series and $15 million targeting relocating series.

The bill was backed by Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-La Canada Flintridge) and co-written by Assembly members Autumn Burke (D-Marina del Rey) and Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles). It passed 37-0 in the Senate and 62-0 in the Assembly, demonstrating strong bipartisan support for keeping California competitive and boosting diversity.

Governor Newsom signed the legislation during a ceremony at the historic Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood, where he was joined by lawmakers, industry leaders and crew members.

Governor Newsom with GO-Biz Director Dee Dee Myers (left) and California Film Commission Executive Director Colleen Bell

"Our existing tax credit program has a long track record of success, and this forward-looking action by Governor Newsom and the legislature will help us compete even more effectively,” said California Film Commission Executive Director Colleen Bell. “It’s great to see our lawmakers work together to keep production jobs here at home and ensure that Californians from all backgrounds have access to career opportunities in our state's signature industry."

More information about SB 144 and the bill signing is available on Governor Newsom's website.

The California Film Commission is currently working on regulations and protocols to implement the tax credit expansion. Please check the CFC website’s Tax Credit Section for updates and sign up here to receive CFC Production Alerts.

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Also Tune In:

The California Film Commission recently launched “Spotlight California” -- a new video series that features interviews with top content creators, policymakers, business leaders and others who are helping shape film and TV production across the Golden State.

Hosted by CFC Executive Director Colleen Bell, each video examines what it’s like to work in California’s signature industry. The format is fast-paced with topics covering life in front of and behind the camera.

'Spotlight California' episodes are available on the CFC's YouTube channel.

About the California Film Commission

The California Film Commission enhances California's status as the leader in motion picture,

television, and commercial production.

A one-stop office for filmmakers, the Commission supports productions of all sizes and budgets. In addition to managing the Film & Television Tax Credit program, services include an extensive digital location library, free online permitting, low cost use of state properties as shooting locations, and production assistance.

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