California bets on post-production tax credit to recapture jobs

California’s share of U.S. post-production jobs has fallen as editing, sound and visual effects move to New York, Canada and the U.K. AB 2319 would create a 35%–50% tax credit on California post-production spending, seeking about $100 million annually, and heads to a Senate vote. Supporters say it could attract and retain work in-state, while economists warn it may mainly subsidize projects that would have stayed in California anyway. The measure comes as workers—from Foley artists to editors—see dwindling hours and salaries, and California’s broader film incentives require some production activity in-state. Critics question whether the policy will meaningfully expand employment given budget pressures.