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Senate backs amended film‑production tax incentives after debate over taxpayer cost
Summary
Senators approved SB 185 as amended to expand post‑production film incentives with a capped cash component; backers said incentives could grow a local post‑production industry while critics warned about the state effectively subsidizing private film companies.
The Senate adopted an amended SB 185 to expand post‑film production incentives intended to attract more of the film‑making value chain to Utah.
Senator Anderegg, floor sponsor of the amendment, said the measure increases post‑production incentives and restores a cap (amendment set the cash‑incentive cap back to $500,000 per film). "If no one ever comes to the state, we'll never spend a dime," he said, emphasizing that this is primarily a post‑performance tax incentive rather than a direct cash grant.
Critics questioned whether the state should use incentives to compete for industry jobs. Senator Stevenson and others warned against government 'picking winners and losers.' Supporters and stakeholders including local vendors, film‑industry workers and the Film Commission argued the incentive could create economic activity and jobs, especially in post‑production services that have historically left Utah.
Following debate the clerk announced the outcome: "Senate Bill 185 as amended will be read for a third time having received 20 yay votes, 7 nay votes, 2 being absent." The bill was ordered for third reading on the calendar.
