Senator Greg Hertz of Senate District 7 is pushing for a significant increase in Montana's film tax credits, a move he argues is essential to keep the state competitive in the movie production industry. During a recent Senate Taxation meeting, Hertz highlighted the importance of these credits, which have been in place since 2019, stating that without them, Montana risks losing valuable film projects to states with more attractive incentives.

Hertz expressed his initial skepticism about tax credits but acknowledged their necessity for fostering economic growth in the film sector. He pointed out that Montana has already seen the benefits of productions like "Yellowstone," which relocated from Utah after that state reduced its credits. Hertz emphasized that the current cap of $12 million per year is insufficient and proposed raising it to $30 million to attract more filmmakers.

The senator noted that up to 28 states currently offer similar incentives, making it crucial for Montana to enhance its offerings to avoid losing business. He warned that if the credits are not extended beyond their current expiration in 2029, the state could see a decline in film production, which has proven beneficial for tourism and local economies.

Hertz's proposal aims to ensure that Montana remains a viable option for filmmakers, ultimately supporting job creation and economic development in the state. The committee's decision on this bill could have lasting implications for Montana's position in the film industry.