Texas House Bill HB4392

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to tax credits against franchise tax and sales and use tax for the moving image industry in this state.

Impact

If enacted, HB4392 would amend existing provisions in the Texas Tax Code to include new subchapters pertaining to tax credits for film industry expenditures. The changes are expected to not only incentivize in-state film production but also drive job creation within various sectors that support the production of films, such as hospitality, transportation, and retail. The anticipated influx of film projects could significantly enhance local economies, particularly in areas where filming occurs. Additionally, Texas aims to compete with other states with established film tax credit programs, potentially attracting larger productions that might otherwise choose to film in states with more robust incentives.

Summary

House Bill 4392 aims to stimulate the Texas moving image industry by providing tax credits against franchise taxes and sales and use taxes for film-related expenditures. Specifically, the bill proposes a 30 percent tax credit for expenditures made in-state related to the production of films. This initiative is designed to foster growth within the local film industry, making Texas a more attractive location for filmmakers and studios considering where to produce their projects. By easing the tax burden on film productions, the state hopes to boost employment and ancillary economic activity linked to filmmaking.

Contention

While the bill's potential benefits are clear, there may be points of contention regarding the fiscal implications of such tax incentives. Critics could raise concerns about the efficacy of tax credits as a means of economic development, questioning whether the state revenue lost through these credits will be offset by the economic activities generated by the film industry. Furthermore, there may be debates over the allocation of public funds and resources towards the film industry compared to other sectors that could equally benefit from tax relief and support.