A bipartisan group of lawmakers is advancing a bill that would create a federal tax credit for domestic film and television productions, aiming to reverse the exodus of studio work to countries like Canada and Europe. The legislation, known as the Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act, includes additional financial incentives for productions that develop in rural communities designated as federal opportunity zones.
President Donald Trump has publicly urged Congress to pass legislation incentivizing entertainment studios to bring production back to the United States. Following a meeting with actor Jon Voight, Trump characterized the current state of Hollywood as a "total disaster" and pushed for a federal tax incentive. This presidential call has fostered an unlikely alliance among House and Senate members who are now drafting the bill.
In the House, Rep. Nathaniel Moran, R-Texas, is leading the effort alongside colleagues including Reps. Mike Carey, R-Ohio, Brian Jack, R-Ga., Linda Sanchez, D-Calif., and Tom Suozzi, D-N.Y. Moran’s East Texas district is largely rural, a significant departure from the traditional centers of filmmaking in California and New York. He stated that he wants to prevent American storytelling from being diluted by overseas values and inspired the next generation through domestic media.
Moran emphasized that the bill signals American storytelling occurs across the entire nation, including in rural areas, rather than being confined to California or New York.
In the Senate, the bill is led by Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., a prominent critic of President Trump, and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., one of the president’s strongest supporters in the chamber. Rep. Tom Suozzi noted that his home state of New York is watching high-paying jobs and production move overseas. He emphasized that both Democrats and Republicans agree on the need to retain these jobs domestically.
The bill proposes extra support for studios that choose to bring development to rural communities. Moran addressed potential concerns from conservatives who view the entertainment industry as having a liberal bias. He argued that his state produces "conservative," "faith-based," and "patriotic" entertainment that stimulates local economies. In response to those who challenge the measure, Moran questioned whether opponents truly wish for American stories and productions to be shaped by foreign cultures and values instead of remaining domestic.
The congressional term is ending soon, making passage after the November election difficult. Moran expressed confidence that a bipartisan tax package will be considered during the lame-duck session and hopes that this bill or a version of it will be included in the final text.