Illinois expanding the Film Production Services Tax Credit

(The Center Square) – The state of Illinois is going all-in in its efforts to attract film production.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker recently signed a measure into law that expands the Film Production Services Tax Credit to include talk shows, contests and game shows. The legislation was part of an omnibus economic development bill that also included incentives for quantum computing development and redevelopment zones across the state.

Pritzker said the TV and film industry is an economic boost for Illinois.

“The production staff, cast and crew need comfortable places to stay, access Illinois' excellent local restaurants to dine in, welcoming taverns to visit after hours and a well-trained, diverse workforce to bring productions to life, our film and TV production industry is a boon for our entire economy,” said Pritzker.

Illinois Production Alliance Executive Director Christine Dudley said an economic impact study shows that the film tax credit is paying off.

“For every dollar spent on the tax credit, seven dollars is generated into the economy, so that is a return on investment and really speaks to the success of the program,” said Dudley.

Dudley said approximately 94% of current film and television production in Illinois is a byproduct of the film tax credit.

The tax credit offers a 30% credit for qualified film, television, streaming and ad production in Illinois, with an additional 15% credit available for salaries paid to people who live in economically disadvantaged areas across the state.

Earlier this year, the governor and representatives from the Illinois film industry traveled to California to promote the state as a filming destination to Hollywood producers.

“The strides Illinois has made in growing our film and television production sector in recent years is nothing short of remarkable, and it’s time to ensure that every production company and studio knows exactly what we can offer them here in the Land of Lincoln,” said Pritzker before embarking on the trip.

Current Illinois productions include FX’s “The Bear,” Apple TV’s “Dark Matter,” and NBC’s “Chicago Med.”