Did the new incentives conjure up ghost drivers for special film industry trucks headed to small Texas towns?
Adena Lewis of the Smithville Chamber of Commerce vouches for the economic impact of movie production, and asserts from first hand knowledge that local film jobs hinge on improved incentives. Fiscal conservatives claim this bill is a compromise on principles. Likening the measure to chasing ghosts puts it kindly. “Bi-Partisan pork” and “Socialism” are found among the criticisms. Conservative moms speak even greater disdain for the notion of luring Hollywood to Texas. The revised bill is comparatively simple. Most other states, including the current two film production leaders, have state income taxes. The uniqueness of the Texas’ tax system limits the options for luring film production to the LoneStarState. Hudgins believes “cash back” is best approach to compete with big tax breaks offered other states. The Fiscal Note on HB-873 predicted “No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated”. The new qualifications for cash back require $250,000 in Texas spending on big film
