Texas Rising: How New Laws Are Turning Texas into America’s Next Big Film Spot

Texas is now getting serious about movies. And not just the kind you watch — the kind that are made right there in the heart of the United States. The state government has introduced new film laws that are making big news in the entertainment world. If you are interested in movies or work in media, this update from Texas is worth knowing. And yes, even Indian filmmakers may find something in it.

Let’s break it down simply so anyone can understand what’s happening — and why everyone is talking about Texas.

What’s Changing in Texas?

The Texas government has passed something called Senate Bill 22. It’s a law that sets aside ₹4,000 crore (USD $500 million) every two years for the film and television industry. This money is part of something called the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program. In simple terms, it means if someone makes a film or a TV show in Texas, the state is ready to support them financially.

This support isn’t for every small YouTube clip. To qualify, the filmmakers must spend at least $500,000 (around ₹4 crore) in Texas. Also, the film crew must include people who actually live in Texas — at least 35% now, and it will go up to 50% by 2031. This is the government’s way of saying: “Make your movies here, and hire our people.”

You can read about these changes in detail on Film Daily, where we share updates from the entertainment world regularly.

Big Names Are Supporting This Move

Two of Hollywood’s most known actors, Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, have shown their support for this change. In fact, they even spoke to Texas lawmakers about it. McConaughey shared that just one of his projects had already spent ₹100 crore in Texas — buying equipment, hiring workers, paying for locations, and more.

Their support gives this plan more attention. When stars speak up, the public listens. And this time, they’re not just acting in films — they’re helping bring more of them to Texas.

More coverage and insights on celebrity support and lawmaker decisions are always posted at Film Daily.

Why Indian Filmmakers Should Pay Attention?

Now you might wonder: “What does this have to do with India?”

Good question.

Indian filmmakers are always on the lookout for interesting and affordable places to shoot their films. Texas offers something special — big open spaces, modern cities, and a wide range of natural beauty. From deserts to forests, Texas has the kind of background many films need. It’s like having a bit of every location in one state.

Add to that the financial benefits from the government, and Texas becomes a strong option for international shoots. Indian production houses working on bilingual or cross-country films might find Texas a perfect match.

We at Film Daily will continue to cover how Indian cinema can connect with opportunities like these abroad.

New Studios Are Also Coming Up

Big funding means big plans. Along with this new law, Texas is also building new studios and production centers. These are not small warehouses — they are full setups with everything needed to shoot, edit, and finish a film or series.

This will make it easier for filmmakers to shoot in Texas without bringing in outside equipment or traveling too far for the next step. Think of it as a one-stop film center.

If you’ve been following the news on Film Daily, you’ll see that several new studios have already started construction in places like San Marcos, Austin, and Dallas.

What Does This Means for Jobs?

This plan isn’t only about making movies. It’s also about jobs. When more films get made in Texas, more people will be hired — from light boys to camera operators, makeup artists to food providers. That’s thousands of people who benefit from each film.

It’s a full circle: films get made, people get paid, and the state earns back through taxes and tourism. Tourists love visiting movie locations, and that alone could bring even more money into Texas.

With this smart planning, Texas is putting itself on the map — not just in the US, but globally.

A Sign of What’s Coming

Texas’s efforts show that states don’t have to be known for films to become leaders in the industry. With the right support and vision, any region can make space for the film world — and become a big name in it.

This also gives other countries and states a model to learn from. Maybe one day, Indian states can adopt similar ideas — not just relying on Mumbai or Hyderabad, but building strong film zones in other regions too.

For more such news, keep checking Film Daily, where we break down film updates in a simple way for our Indian readers.

Final Words

The film world is changing. Big money is moving. And Texas is getting ready to be the new home for stories on the screen.

Whether you’re a movie fan, a production crew member, or someone just interested in where cinema is headed — this move by Texas is something to watch closely. It’s not just news. It’s the start of something big.

To follow more film-related updates, industry trends, and opportunities like this, keep visiting Film Daily. We’ll keep you informed in the simplest way possible.