Bill > HB598

This bill allows local governments to create "film industry community zones" within their jurisdictions, which are designated areas intended to foster a significant film industry presence and drive economic activity. Localities, or other political subdivisions acting on their behalf, can offer special benefits to film businesses and related service providers that choose to operate within these zones. These benefits can include reduced fees, such as permit and user fees, and even reductions in certain gross receipts taxes, which are taxes on a business's total revenue. Additionally, local governing bodies are empowered to provide economic development incentive grants to these businesses, often tied to specific investments, job creation, or other economic goals related to the film industry. The bill also permits local governments to offer regulatory flexibility within these zones, which could involve special zoning, streamlined permit processes, or exemptions from certain local ordinances. Importantly, establishing a film industry community zone does not prevent businesses within it from also participating in the Governor's Motion Picture Opportunity Fund or from being eligible for the state's motion picture production tax credit.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB598