H.B. No. 1452 seeks to bolster film and television production in Texas through the establishment of new funding mechanisms and educational initiatives. The bill proposes the creation of virtual film production institutes at Texas A&M University and Texas State University, aimed at providing educational opportunities in this emerging field. It also introduces a film events trust fund and a film production tax rebate trust fund to support various media productions in the state. The definition of eligible events for funding under the major events reimbursement program is expanded to include film and television productions, thereby broadening the scope of support for these activities.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of a process for determining incremental tax receipts related to film events, managed by the office in collaboration with endorsing entities. The Film Events Trust Fund will be funded through tax revenues from municipalities and counties, with specific limitations on disbursements for structural improvements and prohibitions on funding for permanent construction of arenas or stadiums. Additionally, the bill amends the Government Code to expand the definition of media production development zones and qualified media production locations, extending the duration of designations from two to four years and streamlining the application process. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance Texas's competitiveness in the film and television industry by providing necessary resources and clearer guidelines for production facilities and projects.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 475.0001, Government Code 478.0001, Government Code 478.0051, Government Code 151.3415 (Government Code 478, Government Code 475, Government Code 151)