California Moves to Expand Film Tax Credits, Giving Boost to Drone Filming and Creative Industries
LOS ANGELES (April 24, 2025) — Big news out of Sacramento this week: California’s creative sector, including aerial cinematography providers like CineDrones, could soon benefit from a major update to the state’s film and television tax incentive program.
Two key pieces of legislation—AB 1138 and SB 630—advanced through critical committee hearings thanks to a unified push by SAG-AFTRA and the Entertainment Union Coalition, supported by more than 120,000 letters from industry workers and advocates.
“Drone filming is a vital piece of modern production, and these bills signal a commitment to keeping cutting-edge media tools like ours working right here in California,” said Michael Fortin, Director of Photography at CineDrones, a Los Angeles-based aerial cinematography company known for its work on high-profile productions.
What’s in the New Legislation?
If passed, AB 1138 and SB 630 would:
- Increase base tax credit allocations from 20–25% to 35–40%
- Offer higher incentives for productions filmed outside Los Angeles, helping spread economic impact statewide
- Expand eligibility to include more genres, formats, and indie projects
- Double application windows and provide more flexible funding to meet modern production needs
- Ensure funding isn’t tied up unnecessarily by limiting delays for recurring series
These changes are especially timely as California faces increased competition from states like Georgia, New Mexico, and even international hubs offering generous film incentives.
What It Means for Drone Cinematography and Production Jobs
As production budgets tighten and visual demands grow, drone filming services are becoming more essential than ever—for everything from blockbuster films to real estate marketing, construction site monitoring, and infrastructure inspections.
“These incentives directly impact how and where we work,” Fortin added. “When productions stay in California, so do thousands of jobs—ours included.”
CineDrones, which also provides FAA-certified drone inspections for construction, commercial real estate, and infrastructure projects, has seen firsthand how productions leaving the state negatively affect not only studios and actors, but also the drone pilots, technicians, and creative crews behind the scenes.
Action Needed: Final Push for Monday’s Hearing
The next and most challenging hurdle comes Monday, when the Assembly Revenue & Taxation Committee will review the bills. Industry professionals are being urged to send letters of support before the hearing.
Click here to send your letter now and help ensure California remains the heart of the entertainment—and aerial cinematography—world.
Watch the Hearings
- Assembly Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports & Tourism (starts at the 36-minute mark)
- Senate Revenue & Taxation Committee
For drone filming inquiries or to learn more about CineDrones’ work in entertainment, construction, and real estate, contact us today or follow us on social media.
Let’s keep California rolling—and flying.
