Bring Film Production Back to Florida

Given the lack of a statewide film incentive program in Florida, I request that action be taken to reinstate a competitive incentive program to attract film, television, and digital media projects to the state. The film and entertainment industry provides significant economic benefits through job creation, spending with local businesses, and showcasing Florida's diverse locations. Without a viable incentive program, the state is at a disadvantage compared to other markets actively recruiting productions with lucrative tax credits and rebates. Florida previously offered financial incentives which helped sustain a thriving production industry generating high-wage jobs and revenue for businesses across multiple sectors. The loss of these incentives has resulted in a decline of film work in the state, with projects taking their investment and employment opportunities elsewhere. Reestablishing a competitive incentive package would revitalize Florida as a filming destination, drawing major motion pictures, television series, commercials, and other productions with the associated economic impacts. While some counties and cities maintain local film incentive programs, a comprehensive statewide solution is required to provide certainty for productions and maximize the benefits for all Floridians. When comparing locations, filmmakers consider factors like incentives, infrastructure, crew base, and locations - areas where Florida has proven strengths but currently lacks the financial incentive component making it truly competitive. I urge you to prioritize reinstating an attractive and sustainable film incentive program that will generate strong returns through economic development, job creation, tourism promotion, and maintaining Florida's legacy as a top production hub.