Bloomberg Law Op-Ed Cites ProdPro Data in Debate Over a Federal Film Tax Credit

In a Bloomberg Law commentary, Reed Smith partner Sam Roseme argues a proposed federal film and TV tax credit won't help Los Angeles unless local leaders fix the obstacles driving production away, citing ProdPro data showing New York on track to overtake California.

A proposed federal film and television tax credit is raising new questions about where U.S. production will go next. In a commentary for Bloomberg Law, Sam Roseme, an entertainment and corporate partner at Reed Smith, argues the bill could put more pressure on Los Angeles, not less.

The Motion Picture, Television, and Entertainment Revitalization Act would create a nationwide incentive with no cap and no sunset, covering most production spending, including above-the-line talent. It has bipartisan support, and advocates hope it passes by year's end.

Roseme writes that a federal credit would help the U.S. compete with countries like Canada, the U.K. and Australia. But states would still compete with one another. Those with stronger incentives and more welcoming filming environments, such as New York, Louisiana, Georgia and Texas, could gain more than California.

To make that point, the piece cites ProdPro. Even though New York City's cost of living is higher than L.A.'s, production there is surging, and a recent ProdPro report shows New York State on track to overtake California as the No. 1 state for production.

Roseme also compares the two states' incentives. California's revamped program is capped at $750 million, sunsets in five years and excludes above-the-line talent. New York's is $800 million, runs 10 years and covers above-the-line costs. He calls for better coordination across L.A. County's 88 cities, a stronger or better-staffed FilmLA, dedicated city staff, and a more competitive state credit.

Whatever happens with the federal bill, ProdPro will continue to track how incentives shape where productions go, state by state and quarter by quarter. For the latest numbers, see the ProdPro Q3 2026 TV & Film Industry Insights Report.

Read the full commentary on Bloomberg Law.

To learn more about how ProdPro data can help your team understand the production landscape, contact the ProdPro team or request a call.