THE INCENTIVES PROGRAM - TIP

On May 12, 2025, Governor Greg Gianforte signed Senate Bill 326 into law, thereby amending the Montana Media Production tax credit program, as follows:

• Allocates $12 million per calendar year as follows:
  • 10% to any production or postproduction company on a first-come, first-served basis;
  • 10% for independent film productions, as defined;
  • 40% for media production credits derived from any portion of base investment related to the rental cost of qualified Montana facilities, as defined; and
  • 40% for domiciled companies, as defined;
• Qualifies 30% of the compensation paid to each resident veteran of the armed forces or an enrolled member or descendant of an Indian tribe recognized by the state, not to exceed a $150,000 credit for each person;
• Amends the definition of a qualified production to include unscripted television and documentaries;
• Requires that a qualified production must complete a minimum of 60% of principal photography time in the state or that the base investment must exceed $5 million;
• Defines an independent film production as one with a production budget of $3 million or less; and,
• Extends the program’s sunset date to December 31, 2045.