Iowa Lawmakers Rally Behind Tax Credit Initiative to Revive State’s Film Industry
Iowa Lawmakers Seek to Reignite Film Industry with Tax Credit Proposal
In a bid to rejuvenate Iowa’s presence in the film industry, lawmakers are deliberating over House Study Bill 731, which proposes tax credits for film productions. The bill aims to entice studios back to the Hawkeye State, offering a 30% rebate on qualified spending for larger-budget projects during a two-year pilot period from 2025-26. This move follows years of absence from the silver screen, spurred in part by a previous film credit program that was marred by scandal, court battles and misappropriated credits totaling $26 million, resulting in seven convictions.
Representative Brent Siegrist of Council Bluffs expressed optimism about the revamped proposal, assuring that it addresses past oversight concerns. Echoing Siegrist’s sentiment, Representative Brian Best of Glidden reminisced about the pride instilled by iconic films like Field of Dreams, underscoring the potential cultural and economic benefits of revitalizing Iowa’s film industry. Testimonies from film groups and studios, including Jennifer Kingland of Renovo Media Group, highlighted the detrimental effects of Iowa’s lack of tax incentives, with projects often opting for states offering such incentives like Kentucky.
Tax Credits – House Bill Proposes for Moviemaking in the State: Iowa’s Film Industry Revival! (PHOTO: The Des Moines Register)
Bipartisan Backing and Native Talent Focus Drive Momentum for Iowa Film Tax Credit Bill
During Tuesday’s subcommittee hearing, bipartisan support emerged for the bill, signaling a shared recognition of the potential for growth and prosperity within Iowa’s film sector. Lawmakers discussed potential adjustments to the program, including lowering the minimum budget requirement for eligibility to foster a native filmmaking industry. Representative Chuck Isenhart of Dubuque emphasized the importance of nurturing local talent and establishing Iowa as a competitive destination for film production. As the proposal gains traction, stakeholders remain hopeful for a resurgence of Iowa’s cinematic prominence on the national stage.
