California Senate Approves Film & TV Tax Credits Bill

In a near-unanimous vote, California’s film tax credit program is set for a major overhaul as the state Senate passed SB630, expanding its scope to include series episodes, animation films, and other large-scale projects. The bill, which now moves to the Assembly, complements AB1138, aimed at modernizing and boosting incentives for the film and television industry following years of struggles and Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed incentive increase. This legislation comes amid a competitive landscape where other states are intensifying their efforts to lure production with expanded tax breaks, while Trump’s tariffs on foreign-produced movies further draw attention to California’s film scene.