The American film and television industry is a cornerstone of the national economy, providing numerous employment opportunities and bolstering local communities. Representatives from historic studios, labor groups, and production alliances are united in urging Congress to pass a federal film incentive to protect American jobs and maintain the country’s leadership in visual storytelling.
America’s film and TV sector creates over 2 million jobs annually across all 50 states. The industry ensures substantial wages, amounting to over $200 billion each year. Furthermore, it has a trade surplus with most nations, reinforcing its economic importance.
Americans often cite movies and TV as areas where the U.S. excels globally.
Notable productions like “The Odyssey,” featuring Matt Damon, benefit from the country’s diverse filming locations.
States have initiated tax incentive programs, leveraging various locations from Montana’s expansive landscapes to Hawaii’s stunning vistas, to enhance local filming competitiveness. An average feature film contributes $22 million to its filming location’s economy, while TV series production can hire up to 1,800 workers per season.
A federal incentive can rejuvenate domestic production. Currently, the U.S. share in global film production has decreased from 65% to 39%, affected by international production incentives. This decline results in reduced domestic job opportunities and economic contributions.
Studies demonstrate the potential economic impact of restoring the U.S. share to its former level, predicting an addition of $250 billion to the economy and the creation of 143,000 new jobs annually. States, like Georgia and Texas, illustrate the effectiveness of local tax incentives, offering substantial returns on investment.
The federal government supports industries essential for retaining American jobs, from pharmaceuticals to aerospace. The cultural impact of American films and series increases foreign interest in U.S. products and culture, enhancing its global influence.
The call for Congress to pursue a federal tax incentive is backed by bipartisan advocates, including notable figures such as President Donald Trump. He emphasized the need for swift legislative action to prioritize American entertainment jobs.
The introduction of the Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act reflects a commitment to this cause, with bipartisan congressional support from legislators like Sens. Tim Scott and Adam Schiff, alongside other prominent representatives.
America’s leadership in film and television is integral to its national identity. Protecting these industries ensures continued innovation and employment opportunities. Congress must act to help everyone impacted by the film industry return to work, continuing the tradition of captivating storytelling.
Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, advocates for legislative backing to preserve the vitality of American film production.
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