Texas Senate Approves $500M Boost for Film Industry with “Family Values” Clause

The Texas Senate passed a plan that would significantly increase the state's spending on film and TV production. The goal is to make the Lone Star State a desirable place for the industry to relocate. Senate Bill 22, written by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, passed with a vote of 23-8 and will now be considered in the Texas House.

Every two years, the bill would raise Texas's film subsidies from $200 million to $500 million. It would achieve this by establishing a special fund using sales tax revenue to support production within the state. Since the extra money would be locked in for ten years, companies and investors would have long-term security.

"It does it for ten years, which gives the business world and investors peace of mind who want to bring these great jobs to Texas," Huffman said.

People who supported the bill said that previous opportunities had been missed, such as the Netflix show about Tejano star Selena, which was filmed outside the state. Sen. Carol Alvarado, D-Houston, who voted in favor, discussed how local production benefits the economy and culture.

Alvarado said, "They're putting our cities, towns, and regions on the world stage." "They're making movies about Texas while keeping our money at home."

Some people dislike the bill because it includes a "family values" clause that allows the Governor's Office to withhold funds for any project that fails to meet subjective content standards, even after filming is completed. Concerns have been raised about artistic freedom and government interference because of an amendment that also supports faith-based productions.

Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, D-Austin, said that voting against the bill would lead to confusion. "Only very well-funded production companies that are willing to risk losing the subsidy after production or a certain type of politically acceptable films will be able to get this subsidy."

The bill has support from both parties, but concerns remain about potential creative censorship. What happens in the Texas House will determine whether this ambitious expansion moves forward.

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