The Ohio Senate Finance Committee convened on June 6, 2025, to discuss key provisions of House Bill 96, particularly focusing on the Ohio motion picture tax credit and entertainment credit. The meeting featured testimony from Scott Titsworth, Dean of the Scripps College of Communication at Ohio University, who advocated for increasing the tax credit to $75 million without a sunset clause. Titsworth emphasized that such a move would position Ohio as a competitive location for the motion picture industry, similar to Georgia, which has seen significant economic growth due to its robust tax incentives.

Titsworth presented data indicating that Georgia's entertainment sector grew from $890 million to $4.4 billion between 2012 and 2022, yielding a return of $6.30 for every dollar invested in tax incentives. He argued that Ohio could achieve similar benefits by providing long-term support for the industry, which would also create reliable job opportunities for students trained in film and entertainment disciplines.

Committee members raised concerns about Ohio's ability to attract production companies compared to states like Georgia, which have established significant infrastructure, including large studios. Titsworth responded that Ohio needs to signal its commitment to the industry through sustained incentives and infrastructure development. He noted that while Ohio has had tax incentives for 16 years, they have not been competitive enough to attract major studios.

Senator Chavez questioned why studios have not established roots in Ohio despite the existing incentives. Titsworth reiterated that a lack of long-term commitment signals to the industry that Ohio is not fully invested in becoming a viable location for film production. He highlighted the importance of creating a supportive environment for small businesses related to the entertainment sector, such as post-production studios.

The discussion also touched on the impact of artificial intelligence on the film industry. Titsworth acknowledged that while AI is changing workflows, it is unlikely to replace the human elements essential to filmmaking, such as acting and directing. He expressed hope that if AI-driven production houses emerge, they would choose to establish themselves in Ohio.

Overall, the meeting underscored the need for Ohio to enhance its appeal to the entertainment industry through improved tax incentives and infrastructure, aiming to retain talent and foster economic growth within the state. The committee's discussions will likely influence future legislative actions regarding the motion picture tax credit and its potential expansion.