RELATING TO COMMON INTEREST OWNERSHIP COMMUNITIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Daniel Holt and 7 co-sponsors

House Bill 475 expands tax credits for film and digital productions in Georgia, clarifying eligibility and certification, boosting economic activity in the industry.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

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Purpose and Intent

House Bill 475 (HB 475) aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically Code Section 48-7-40.26, which pertains to income tax credits for film, gaming, video, or digital production. The bill seeks to clarify definitions, revise rules and regulations, and establish fees related to the certification process for production companies seeking tax credits.

Key Provisions

Revised Definitions:

The bill updates the definition of "Qualified production activities" to include a broader range of media projects eligible for tax credits, such as:
- Feature films
- Television series and pilots
- Commercial advertisements
- Music videos
- Interactive entertainment and games
Exclusions are specified for projects not intended for multimarket distribution, such as news coverage, local interest programming, and user-generated content on social media.

Certification Process:

The Department of Economic Development is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations regarding:
- Certification application deadlines
- Types of qualified project content
- Required supporting documentation
- Certification application fees
The Department may charge reasonable fees associated with the certification process, which will be deposited into the state general fund.

Court Costs:

If a production company's certification is denied and the denial is upheld in court, the company will be responsible for all court costs associated with the appeal.

Affected Parties

Production Companies: The bill directly impacts film, gaming, and digital production companies operating in Georgia by providing clearer guidelines and potential financial incentives through tax credits.

Department of Economic Development: This agency will oversee the certification process and manage the associated fees.

Procedural Aspects

Effective Date: The provisions of HB 475 will take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to taxable years beginning on or after this date.

Legislative Journey: The bill was introduced on February 18, 2025, and has undergone multiple readings and amendments in both the House and Senate. It was signed by the Governor on May 12, 2025, and became Act 124.

Conclusion

HB 475 represents a significant update to Georgia's tax credit framework for the film and digital production industry. By clarifying definitions and establishing a structured certification process, the bill aims to enhance the state's attractiveness as a production location, potentially boosting economic activity in this sector.

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