AUSTIN — In a major win for the state’s film and television industry, Texas lawmakers have approved a measure that would dramatically increase the amount of state funding available to attract media productions. Senate Bill 22, authored by Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Houston), establishes a new Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Fund, allocating $300 million every two years through 2035.
The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Greg Abbott.
Initially introduced with a $500 million price tag, SB 22 was later scaled back by the House budget committee. The Senate accepted the amendment in a 23–8 vote.
“This bill makes us competitive with our neighbors so that we wouldn’t be losing our stories to New Mexico, Louisiana, and Georgia,” said Chase Musslewhite, co-founder of Media for Texas, a nonprofit that advocates for the state’s film and media industry. “We just want to be baseline competitive.”
Key Provisions of SB 22
The legislation replaces the current incentive program, which provides $200 million per biennium, with a more predictable and expanded system. Qualifying productions will be eligible for grants covering:
- Wages for Texas-based film workers
- Meals purchased from local restaurants
- Flights on Texas-based airlines
The bill also introduces bonus incentives for projects that:
- Film at historical Texas sites
- Partner with Texas colleges or universities
- Are produced in economically distressed or underutilized areas (+2.5%)
- Employ veterans in at least 5% of their crew
Notably, the grant rate would rise to 25% for projects spending at least $1.5 million in the state, a significant increase from the current 10–20% structure.
A History of Fluctuating Support
Since its inception in 2007, Texas’ film incentive program has experienced wide funding swings, with past appropriations ranging from $45 million to $200 million. The most recent legislative session in 2023 hit a record high with a $200 million allocation.
Despite controversy, the Texas Film Commission reports a 469% return on investment from the program. Prominent Texas-born actors and filmmakers—including Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Dennis Quaid, and Hell or High Water creator Taylor Sheridan—have all expressed strong support for SB 22.
Rep. Todd Hunter (R-Corpus Christi), who sponsored the bill in the House, acknowledged the scaled-down funding, citing recommendations from the budget committee. Nevertheless, industry advocates view the final version as a crucial step forward.
Dissent and Debate
Not all lawmakers supported the measure. Some, including Rep. David Lowe (R-North Richland Hills), raised concerns about using taxpayer funds to subsidize an industry often seen as politically and culturally misaligned with conservative Texas values.
“This bill provides taxpayer-funded incentives to the film and entertainment industry—the same industry that trashed us for supporting President Trump, mocked us for standing up for the unborn, and ridiculed our Christian faith,” Lowe said. “Now we are expected to reimburse them $2.5 billion over the next decade? Let’s stop the Hollywood handouts.”
Advocates: It’s About Jobs and Economic Growth
Proponents argue that without consistent and competitive incentives, Texas will continue to lose jobs, creative talent, and economic opportunity to other states.
“There are tons of Texans who live in California and New York, all over the globe, who are pursuing their careers because those opportunities weren’t here in Texas,” said Grant Wood, also of Media for Texas. “It’s all about bringing that workforce home and building a stronger economy.”
Musslewhite dismissed fears of Hollywood overreach, stating:
“Instead of fearing what Hollywood will do to Texas, we should be enthusiastic about what Texas will implement on the industry.”
What’s Next?
If signed into law, SB 22 will offer long-term stability and growth for Texas’ film and television production landscape. The consistent funding and expanded eligibility are expected to attract a wider range of projects—from large studio films to independent productions.
For more information and to follow the bill’s progress, visit the Texas Legislature Online or the Texas Film Commission.
