In a major move to grow Alabama’s creative economy, Governor Kay Ivey has signed SB177 into law. The new legislation expands the 2009 Entertainment Industry Incentive Act to include music albums as qualified productions, renames the Alabama Film Office to the Alabama Entertainment Office and allows for the carryover of unspent incentives. This landmark legislation signals Alabama’s commitment to becoming a competitive destination for film, television and music production.
Filed by Sen. Lance Bell, R-Pell City, Alabama Senate Bill 177, as enacted, makes several changes to the state’s Entertainment Industry Incentive Act of 2009. It renames the Alabama Film Office to the Alabama Entertainment Office and unused incentives can now be carried over to the next fiscal year (not to exceed $3 million), giving the state more flexibility to support future productions. The bill also includes music albums as qualified productions, meaning albums with production costs exceeding $30,000 and up to $200,000 may be eligible for rebates, further supporting Alabama’s music legacy. The bill passed in both the House (101-0) and the Senate (34-0).
“This is a great day for Alabama,” said North Alabama Film Services Coordinator Thereasa Hulgan. “Governor Ivey and our legislators have given us stronger negotiating power to attract more productions to our state. We’re also thrilled about the renaming of the Alabama Film Office to the Alabama Entertainment Office; it’s a clear recognition of our thriving music industry, especially here in North Alabama. With Meghann Bridgeman leading the newly renamed office, we believe we’re moving in a very promising direction.”
SB177 is expected to energize the state’s creative economy and generate new jobs across multiple sectors—from camera crews and costume designers to local hotels and restaurants.
“This legislation is about economic development, workforce growth and showcasing the unique stories and landscapes of our great state,” said Tami Reist, president/CEO of the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association. “As Alabama raises its profile in the entertainment world, SB177 ensures the state is not just participating in the industry but competing to lead it.”
The new law arrives at a critical moment as other states adjust their incentive programs. While Louisiana recently decreased its cap from $150 million to $125 million, Alabama is seizing the opportunity to grow.
“This momentum will also benefit the music and broader entertainment industries especially in the Shoals. This opens new doors for recording artists, producers and sound engineers to bring their work to North Alabama,” added Hulgan.
Muscle Shoals, long known for its legendary musical roots, stands to gain from increased attention and activity in the entertainment sector. Tourism leaders in North Alabama believe the bill will help build stronger infrastructure to support both film and music, making North Alabama a creative and economic powerhouse.
The bill in its entirety may be read here.
For more information on the North Alabama Film Commission, visit www.northalabamafilm.org.
