WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Monday called on Congress to approve federal tax incentives aimed at reviving the U.S. film and television production industry, citing concerns that productions have increasingly moved overseas. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated he met with actor Jon Voight, whom he has designated as a “Hollywood Ambassador,” and asserted that there is “no incentive” to work in Hollywood due to the industry’s decline.
The president proposed legislation that would provide federal production incentives, including a 20% tax credit for labor costs both in front of and behind the camera. He claimed the financial benefits of such incentives would outweigh costs, stating the funds spent would be “made up tenfold by the money pouring into the Treasury’s coffers.” Trump emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation, noting that California and other predominantly Democratic states are losing significant revenue as productions relocate.
Industry Response and Proposed Framework
Charles Rivkin, chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, praised Trump’s proposal in a statement, highlighting the global influence of American film and television productions. “For over a century, American studios, casts, and crews have produced the films and series that the world wants to see,” Rivkin said.
According to reporting by Politico, the proposed federal incentive would be stackable on top of existing state-level tax credits, with a requirement that the majority of work be performed by U.S. personnel. Lawmakers are reportedly preparing legislation that could be introduced as early as September.
Context: Industry Decline and Policy Debate
The call for federal intervention follows years of decline in Hollywood’s dominance as a production hub. Industry leaders have cited rising costs, competitive incentives from other countries and states, and political inaction as key factors in the shift of productions to locations such as Canada. The proposed federal incentives aim to reverse this trend by making U.S.-based production more financially attractive.
Trump’s proposal comes amid his long-standing ties to the entertainment industry, including his prior role as host of the reality TV show The Apprentice and his cameo appearances in films. The president has previously appointed Voight, along with actors Mel Gibson and Sylvester Stallone, as special ambassadors to the industry.