Texas Bets Big on Film: $1.5 Billion Incentive Law Aims to Bring Hollywood Home

Texas has taken a bold step to position itself as a major player in the film and television industry, passing a landmark law that will inject $1.5 billion into its film incentive program over the next decade. Senate Bill 22, now enacted, establishes a $300 million biennial fund for the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, providing unprecedented and stable support for productions through 2035.

A Gamechanger for Texas Film

This new commitment more than doubles previous funding levels and marks a significant evolution from the program’s inconsistent past. The initiative aims to attract high-quality film and television projects to Texas cities, with industry advocates describing it as a transformative move for local economies and creative communities.

How the Incentives Work

Texas’s incentives are structured as cash grants, rewarding productions that invest in the state. Projects with budgets of $1.5 million or more can receive grants covering up to 25% of qualified in-state expenditures. Additional bonuses are available for filming in rural or historic locations, hiring Texas veterans, and promoting family values or Texas heritage. The program also encourages productions to hire local workers, with requirements for Texas resident crew members increasing over time.

Competing with Industry Giants

With $150 million allocated annually, Texas now surpasses neighboring states like New Mexico and Louisiana in available film incentives, though it still trails behind industry leaders such as California, New York, and Georgia. The state’s new program is designed to reverse the trend of Texas-set stories being filmed elsewhere, keeping production dollars and cultural narratives within its borders.

Bipartisan Support and Star Power

The legislation received strong bipartisan backing and was championed by prominent Texans, including actors Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, who advocated for the bill at the state Capitol. Supporters argue that the investment will not only boost the state’s economy but also allow Texas to share its unique values and stories with a wider audience.

A New Era for Texas Media

As the law takes effect, Texas is poised to become a new hub for film and television production. The consistent, long-term funding is expected to provide stability for studios and filmmakers, making the state a more attractive destination for major projects and fostering growth in local talent and infrastructure.