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Steve Hilton Unveils California Film Incentive Plan With 40%–60% Credits

He will seek a new federal rebate from President Trump to stack on top of state aid.

Overview

  • Hilton, who unveiled the plan Thursday, proposes removing the $750 million cap and setting a 40% floor with a 60% top rate for some productions.
  • The proposal would allow credits for post-production and above-the-line pay such as actors, directors, writers and producers, with a reserved share for mid-budget independent films.
  • He says he will push the Trump administration to create a federal film incentive that does not yet exist so projects can layer national and state credits.
  • Administrative changes include a Governor’s Expediter to cut red tape, a revamped California Film Commission and a goal to decide many credit applications within 30 days.
  • Hilton frames the overhaul as a response to industry decline, citing more than 50,000 lost jobs and a 16% drop in 2025 shoot days, while unions and budget analysts warn above-the-line and post credits could cost billions.