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Nevada lawmakers have moved forward with a significant overhaul of the state’s film tax credit program, approving a revised version of AB238 that would authorize $95 million per year in transferable credits, an 850% increase starting in 2028.
The amended bill also establishes a new Production Studio Entertainment District, a special tax zone whose revenues are projected to generate $11 million annually for pre-kindergarten (pre-K) programs in Clark County for 17 years.
Tax Incentives, with Strings Attached
The revised bill includes sweeping new accountability and investment provisions:
- Developers must meet $1.8 billion in capital investment by 2038.
- Missed benchmarks can trigger liens on undeveloped land.
- Film companies must spend $4.5 billion over 15 years, or risk repayment penalties of up to $50 million.
- Biennial reports are now required, covering investments, infrastructure, and Nevada employment.
The bill’s sponsor, Assm. Sandra Jauregui (D-Las Vegas), emphasized that these new conditions are intended to guarantee returns on the state’s investment.
Education Link: A Dedicated Revenue Stream for Pre-K
A key new feature of AB238 is its earmarking of film district tax revenues for early childhood education. Funds will go directly to the Clark County School District, addressing a major access gap: of the 27,000 eligible 4- and 5-year-olds in the county, about 20,000 lack access to pre-K programs.
Supporters, including Clark County Education Association director John Vellardita, argue that this mechanism provides a sustainable funding stream for gradual program expansion, which is a more practical solution than one-off appropriations.
However, opposition remains, especially from the Nevada State Education Association (NSEA), which called the tax incentives “fiscal recklessness” and said the legislature should focus on broad-based school funding reforms instead.
Still Facing Hurdles
Despite Saturday’s committee approval, AB238 faces uncertainty:
- Five committee members opposed it (including three Democrats).
- Two voted in favor but reserved the right to switch their votes.
- Governor Joe Lombardo has not taken a clear position, citing the need to assess the bill’s economic implications.
AB238 is competing with another film tax credit bill, SB220, but has advanced further — aided by backing from Sony Pictures Entertainment and Warner Bros. Discovery.
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