Honorable Chris Harris, Chair, Senate Committee on Economic Development
FROM:
John S. O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB873 by Dukes (Relating to incentives for the film, television, video, and digital interactive media production industries.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill adds educational or instructional videos to the definition of a moving image project. The bill amends the definition of underutilized and economically distressed areas. The bill amends grant requirements for a film or television program from a minimum of $1 million in in-state spending to $250,000 and amends the percent that must be filmed in Texas from 80 percent to 60 percent. The bill requires the establishment of rules for grant amounts and changes the additional grant amount for filming in underused areas from 1.25 percent to 2.5 percent of the company's in-state spending. The bill states that grants can only be made from appropriated funds.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.