HARTFORD – For Jonathan Black – co-founder and co-chair of the Connecticut Movie & TV Alliance – no action was the best action this legislative session as far as the state’s film production tax credit goes.
“They left the tax credit as is,” Black, who owns Newtown-based Chair 10 Productions along with his wife, Lauren. “I want to thank all of the lawmakers, especially Speaker Ritter, who saw the economic impact of such an action.”
He is also appreciative of the support received from several first selectmen, such as Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, and mayors.
It marked the third straight year Gov. Ned Lamont included a cut in the tax credit and the third straight year it was shot down. Lamont proposed to cut the 30% film production tax credit to 25% for companies that shoot movies, TV series, commercials, and any digital video projects in the state. Some form of the credit has been in place since 2006.
The so-called “haircut” in the film tax credit apply for expenses that are incurred: 10% for expenses between $100,000 and $500,000; 15% for expenses between $500,000 and $1 million; and 30% for expenses over $1 million. The change would have been retroactive to Jan. 1, 2025.
In a hearing before the state General Assembly’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee Wednesday, Feb. 26, production companies and actors spoke out against the cut in the tax credit.
Lamont argued that reducing the film tax credit would have raised $9.2 million in FY 2026 and $17.1 million in FY 2027. That would be part of a tax revenue plan to raise $368.1 million in general fund revenue for 2026 and $594.7 million for 2027.
“I am really disappointed in Gov. Lamont,” Black said. “Our motto is ‘Make it here.’ Unfortunately, Connecticut is not competitive (enough to attract more production here).”
Black pointed out that because of the threat of cut in the tax credit this year, his company lost two jobs. Many companies continue to be attracted to nearby New York state because of its innovative tax credit structure.
“The credit structure is awesome in New York,” he said. “New York can go up to 50% with its tax credit.”
As for the possibility of Lamont trying for a fourth straight year of trimming the tax credit?
“I am not worried about it coming up again,” Black said. “Maybe, this put it to rest since they are losing every time.”
