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Committee advances film tax-credit package after wide industry support and questions over oversight
Summary
A House committee advanced SB 2580 and companion SB 2578 to strengthen Hawaii’s film tax credits and create a film commission, with industry testimony citing large economic returns and calls from unions for stronger local-hire and oversight provisions; the committee recorded a roll-call approving SB 2580 and directed technical amendments.
The House committee advanced legislation to bolster Hawaii’s film industry, moving SB 2580 (a production tax-credit expansion) and SB 2578 (to create a film commission and grant program) toward further action after broad testimony from industry and labor groups.
Supporters said the measures are intended to restore multi-season television production and long-term jobs. Irish Barber of the Hawaii Film Alliance told the committee, “This bill is going to be a game changer. We haven't had our two anchor TV series in over two years, and this bill will attract more shows to come here and incentivize and put us on par with global competition.” Nadine, a local background performer and SAG-AFTRA member, cited state data: “In 2018 and '19, Hawaii's most impactful filming seasons generated over…
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