Support SB 326: Strengthening Montana’s Film Industry, Jobs, and Local Businesses

Montana’s film industry is a powerful driver of economic growth, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and showcasing the state’s ability to serve as an exceptional backdrop for film productions of all sizes from across the world. Senate Bill 326 (SB 326), sponsored by Senator Hertz, strengthens and expands Montana’s film tax credit program, ensuring long-term investment in the state’s media production sector. By extending tax credits through 2045 and increasing the annual cap from $12 million to $30 million, this bill positions Montana as a competitive destination for film and television productions while prioritizing Montana-based companies, workers, and infrastructure development.

Key Reasons to Support SB 326

Boosting Montana’s Economy and Job Growth

• Significant Economic Impact: Between July 2022 and mid-May 2024, Montana’s film industry contributed an estimated $312.2 million to the state’s economy.
• Supporting Local Businesses: Productions spent approximately $149.9 million locally, benefiting hospitality, retail, and professional services.
• Job Creation: The industry supported 1,320 full-time equivalent jobs, providing Montana workers $95.8 million in wages.

Prioritizing Montana-Based Productions and Workforce Development

• Strengthening Local Companies: 25% of the annual tax credits are dedicated to Montana-domiciled companies, ensuring in-state production companies, film crews, vendors, and facilities have access to critical financial resources.
• Workforce Training Fund: A new film industry workforce training account, funded by a 2% fee on unused credits, will invest in training programs to prepare Montana residents for careers in film and media.

Creating Jobs for Montanans, Veterans, and Tribal Members

• Targeted Hiring Incentives: SB 326 provides higher tax credits for productions that hire Montana residents, veterans, and tribal members, ensuring economic opportunities remain within local communities.

Investing in Infrastructure and Expanding the Industry

• Facility Development: The bill introduces a "qualified Montana facility" definition and reserves 25% of tax credits for facility rentals, encouraging investments in production infrastructure.
• Diversifying Media Production: SB 326 expands eligibility to include documentaries and non-scripted television, attracting a broader range of productions to Montana.

Ensuring Long-Term Growth and Stability

• Extending the Film Tax Credit Through 2045: A long-term commitment provides certainty for filmmakers, investors, and local businesses that rely on film production.

Why This Matters for Montana

SB 326 strengthens Montana’s film industry while keeping funding accessible for local companies, workers, and communities. It ensures that the benefits of production extend beyond large-scale projects and remain rooted in Montana’s economy. By passing this bill, lawmakers can secure a prosperous future for Montana’s media sector and protect thousands of jobs that rely on film and television production.

Tell your legislators to support SB 326 and keep Montana’s film industry strong!