Trump backs federal tax incentives for US film and TV industry

President Donald Trump has endorsed a proposal for federal tax incentives to support the American film and television industry. The initiative aims to combat the migration of productions to countries like Canada and the United Kingdom by providing financial reasons for studios to keep filming and employment within the United States.

Following discussions with actor and Hollywood ambassador Jon Voight, Trump called on Congress to immediately craft bipartisan legislation. While specific details are still being finalized, reports indicate a baseline proposal involves a 20% federal tax credit on labor costs for productions shot domestically. The legislation is expected to be introduced in the House Ways and Means Committee as early as the week of September 14.

The proposal has garnered rare bipartisan support, receiving backing from major entertainment unions including SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, and the Teamsters Local 399, as well as Democratic lawmakers such as Senator Adam Schiff. Industry advocates suggest the credit could help states like California remain competitive and bring thousands of entertainment jobs back to American soil.