Texas House Bill HB3346

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the music, film, television, and multimedia production industry.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a significant impact on Texas's creative industries by establishing clearer pathways for funding and ensuring that a larger percentage of production crews, actors, and extras come from Texas. It mandates that at least 70% of individuals involved in a project must be Texas residents and stipulates that a substantial amount of production activities occurs within the state. This could encourage more local hiring and foster job growth in the creative sector, reinforcing the state's commitment to becoming a hub for media production.

Summary

House Bill 3346 aims to enhance the support and regulatory framework for the music, film, television, and multimedia production industries in Texas. It introduces amendments to the Government Code to clarify the qualifications for production companies seeking state grants, emphasizing local investment and participation in the state's creative economy. The bill also includes provisions for audits of the music, film, television, and multimedia fund to ensure that disbursements align with statutory requirements and that grant recipients are compliant with the terms of their agreements.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns regarding the feasibility of the stringent residency requirements and in-state spending thresholds outlined in the bill. Some stakeholders suggest that this might deter out-of-state production companies from applying for grants or seeking to film in Texas. Debates around the bill have also touched upon the balance between supporting local talent and ensuring that the state remains competitive in attracting diverse production projects that could have significant economic benefits. Additionally, there are discussions on the effectiveness of auditing the fund's disbursements to ensure taxpayer money is used efficiently.