July 24, 2025

Texas Unveils New Film Incentive Program

News Summary

Texas is set to launch a new film incentive program, SB 22, aimed at boosting film and television production in the state. With $300 million available every two years, Texas hopes to attract both local and Hollywood projects, strengthening its position against neighboring states. Cities like Dallas and Fort Worth are emerging as key production hubs, generating jobs and economic benefits for local communities. As Texas invites filmmakers with open arms, the future of its film industry looks promising.

Texas is set to launch a new film incentive program beginning September 1, following the passing of the legislation known as SB 22. This program increases the state’s incentive fund to $300 million every two years, allowing film and television productions to receive incentives of up to 31%. The goal is to enhance Texas’s competitiveness against established filming locations like Georgia and California, which have historically attracted productions due to their favorable incentives.

Several cities, including Fort Worth and Dallas, are emerging as key hubs for film and television. Dallas Film Commissioner Katie Schuck emphasized that maintaining a presence at film-specific events is vital for connecting with filmmakers. The return of productions such as “Landman” in Dallas is already having a significant impact, prompting the need for approximately 120 to 150 background extras during shoots. Experts estimate that larger film productions in Texas could generate around $100,000 per day, contributing substantially to local economies.

Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker reported that the film industry has provided over $700 million in economic benefits to the city since 2015. The incentives implemented through SB 22 are viewed as a strategic investment into the future of Texas’s film industry, expecting to yield an increased amount of production activity by improving incentives. The state aims not only to secure local film projects but also to attract major studios that may collaborate with influential Texas actors such as Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson.

In recent years, Texas has faced challenges in maintaining its competitive edge due to previously underfunded incentive programs, prompting many productions to relocate to neighboring states with more appealing financial support. The new law aims to rectify this by providing robust support for various film projects, including faith-based films and those highlighting Texas history. While the state retains the authority to approve which projects receive funding, this control has generated some controversy.

Critics of SB 22 have raised concerns about potential censorship, particularly regarding the definition of “inappropriate content,” which remains unclear. The push for better film incentives has involved advocacy from local industry stakeholders and several celebrity endorsements. Discussions continue regarding how to effectively balance the need for industry support with local values and cultural representation within Texas.

The new incentive program includes provisions for rebates of up to 31%, contingent on productions hiring a qualified percentage of Texas residents for both cast and crew roles. Cities like El Paso hope to leverage these incentives to showcase their unique locations and cultural assets, although worries persist about competing with regions like New Mexico, which currently offers higher rebate rates.

The enactment of SB 22 reflects a significant shift in Texas’s approach to the film industry as state officials express a desire to cultivate a new narrative around local storytelling. The ongoing enhancements to the state’s film production incentives mark a pivotal moment, aiming to solidify Texas as a prime destination for filmmakers looking to create impactful and diverse content.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.