SB 756 moves out of committee after lawmakers require ZIP-code and veteran reporting for film tax credits

SB 756, a bill by Sen. Small Requiemus to expand reporting and equity measures for California's film and television tax-credit program, was passed out of the Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports and Tourism on July 8, 2025, and referred to the Appropriations Committee after an 8-0 recorded vote with one member not present.

The measure directs the California Film Commission to expand its reporting and diversity-assessment practices so demographic and geographic data are collected confidentially through certified payroll and third-party systems. "This bill builds on broader efforts this year to improve the program's accountability," Sen. Small Requiemus said in his closing remarks. "SB 756 adds a critical layer of focusing on equity and transparency so that we understand not just how much we invest, but who truly benefits."

Why it matters: Supporters said more granular data is necessary to determine whether state film-tax spending is reaching California communities and workers. The sponsor cited the program's current scale—referencing roughly $330,000,000 in annual tax credits—and recent budget increases to underscore the need for better oversight. "We could do more to improve how we track where these projects are happening, who's working on them, and how to ensure an inclusive workforce," Sen. Small Requiemus said.

Committee members emphasized persistent gaps in standardized data collection at the California Film Commission and the need for dedicated staff to monitor the program. Assemblymember Quirk Silva, who moved the bill, said the commission's appointments and staffing had been expanded in recent years but that uniform reporting standards remained lacking. "We need to know the money is used correctly," Quirk Silva said. "If people are going to pull these diversity credits, they are actually going to use them the right way and that they're actually hiring, training, and retaining a diverse group of people for the television and motion picture industry."

Committee discussion and sponsor responses outlined specific data points the bill will require the commission to track, including worker ZIP codes and veteran status; supporters said the data would be collected confidentially and would use existing payroll and third-party reporting systems so the legislation would not impose new hiring mandates. The sponsor also cited a 2025 report by the Legislative Analyst's Office recommending better demographic and geographic data to evaluate program impact and equity.

Dylan Hoffman of California Arts Advocates spoke in support during public comment. Committee Chair Ward and other members noted the bill complements recent budget actions that increased tax-credit funding and said the reporting requirements would help the legislature assess whether the investment is reaching disadvantaged communities such as Baldwin Hills and Leimert Park in South Los Angeles.

The committee vote: The committee recorded an 8-0 vote in favor of referring SB 756 to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, with one member not present. The motion to move the bill was made by Assemblymember Quirk Silva and seconded by Assemblymember McKenner. The committee did not adopt floor amendments at the hearing.

Next steps: SB 756 is scheduled for consideration in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. If advanced from Appropriations and enacted, the bill would change the California Film Commission's reporting requirements; the bill text specifies confidential collection through certified payroll and third-party systems but does not create new hiring mandates."