Senator Adam Schiff Joins The Town to Discuss Making CA More Competitive for Film / Tv Production.

Why It Matters

California risks losing billions in film‑industry revenue and thousands of jobs unless its tax credits become competitive, directly affecting the state’s economic base.

Key Takeaways

• California film tax credits lag behind competing states.
• Producers cite New York cheaper than Los Angeles for set shoots.
• Netflix chose New Mexico, New Jersey for hubs due to incentives.
• Legislators fear credits reduce revenue, despite multiplier effect.
• Industry advocates argue credits generate higher tax returns long term.

Summary

Senator Adam Schiff appeared on The Town to warn that California’s film‑and‑television tax incentives are falling behind rival states, jeopardizing the industry’s long‑standing dominance in Hollywood. He highlighted recent producer feedback that shooting a set‑bound movie in Los Angeles now costs more than filming the same production in New York, and cited Netflix’s decision to locate massive production hubs in New Mexico and New Jersey precisely because those states offered more attractive credit packages.

Schiff argued that while California has introduced incentives for green power, manufacturing and defense, it has failed to modernize its entertainment credits to match the aggressive packages elsewhere. He noted that legislators often view the credits as a giveaway that drains state revenue, yet pointed to data suggesting each dollar of credit generates roughly ten dollars in tax receipts, a multiplier effect championed by industry lobbyists such as Noah Wy.

“Without these tax credits this business just leaves, leaving us with less tax revenue,” Schiff quoted, emphasizing that the loss of production translates directly into lost jobs, ancillary spending and long‑term fiscal contributions. He warned that the state has been battling this issue for three decades without decisive action.

The discussion underscores a pivotal policy crossroads: upgrading California’s credit structure could retain high‑budget productions, safeguard thousands of jobs, and ultimately boost state revenues, whereas inaction may accelerate an exodus to more incentive‑friendly jurisdictions.