Hollywood Meets the Desert? Lawmakers Push for Massive Film Tax Breaks in Nevada

Nevada lawmakers are once again looking to Hollywood to boost the state’s economy, proposing two bills that could hand out over $160 million in annual tax credits to film studios. The idea? Transform Las Vegas into a major production hub. But with Nevada’s budget already stretched thin, is this a wise investment or just another costly government gamble?

Assembly Bill 238 proposes $80 million per year in transferable tax credits for 15 years, contingent on a $400 million capital investment. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 220, a competing proposal, seeks $83 million in tax breaks over the same period for a project at UNLV’s Harry Reid Research and Technology Park. Both bills require proof that 70% of funding is already secured, and both emphasize training Nevada residents for film industry jobs.

The push for tax credits comes amid concerns that Nevada cannot solely rely on the casino industry to sustain its economy. Senator Roberta Lange insists that “we have to take risks” to diversify, while Governor Joe Lombardo has expressed skepticism, warning that previous proposals put too much strain on Nevada’s budget.

Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager acknowledges the financial burden, calling the film incentives “a big ask” but saying lawmakers will carefully evaluate whether it makes sense for Nevada.

With committee hearings expected soon, the question remains: Will taxpayers end up footing the bill for Hollywood, or will this move bring real economic opportunity to Nevada?

Source: Las Vegas Review-Journal