Representative Keenan Votes for Job Growth, Encourages
Film Industry Business in Massachusetts

BOSTON – Representative John Keenan (D-Salem) today voted with 147 of his colleagues in the House of Representatives in support of a bill that would provide tax incentives to film companies to shoot more movies in Massachusetts.

The measure would establish a tax credit for motion picture production companies producing in Massachusetts. It would create tax credits for between 15% and 25% for payroll for Massachusetts residents employed by the company and for certain production expenses. The credits are capped at $7 million for any one production and do not apply to any salaries that are $1 million or more, a provision intended to exclude celebrity pay from the credit. Finally, it would exempt sales of tangible personal property to a film company that qualifies for the credits from sales tax liabilities.

The bill is estimated to bring about $77 million in revenue to the state in the first year and up to $215 million in the third year.

“This bill puts Massachusetts on the same playing field as much of the rest of the country in terms of attracting film production companies to our Commonwealth,” said Representative Keenan, “It will help create jobs, bring more business to our state, and put Massachusetts on the movie industry map as a film-friendly location.”