SPRINGFIELD—A plan to attract more film and TV companies to Illinois recently passed the Senate.

State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago) is sponsoring the proposal, which would expand the state’s film production tax credit with the aim of raising Illinois’ national standing in the film and television industry.

“This effort will help us gain momentum in the media production industry,” Sims said. “We have seen much growth in this area, but expanding the film tax credit would help us attract more film companies and really thrive.”

Senate Bill 1595 changes the Film Production Services Tax Credit Act to allow the first $200,000 of out-of-state wages paid or acquired by production companies to qualify for the film production services tax credit.

“This is an opportunity to reverse downward trends of business in Illinois,” Sims said. “We saw many companies leave amidst financial turmoil. This plan will help keep and attract film business to the state.”

SB 1595 is set to head to the House for consideration.