Governor Pritzker launches film production tax credit to promote sustainable film making

(WAND) - Governor JB Pritzker announced a film production tax credit Wednesday aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable film and television production.

Under the expanded program, productions recognized as a "certified green production" through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's Illinois Film Office will be eligible for an additional 5% tax credit.

Illinois is the first state in the nation to incentivize film and television productions for meeting sustainability standards.

Governor Pritzker said, "Illinois is a prime destination for film and television productions, and we're proud to be the first state in the nation to incentivize sustainability in the industry. Illinois is leading the way toward a greener future - one that promotes economic opportunity and environmentally sustainable productions at the same time."

Pritzker said Illinois film production expenditures have reached a record-breaking high of $703 million in 2025, supporting about 18,000 in industry hires.

Chicago is now ranked as the third best big city for those working in the film industry.

DCEO Director Kristin Richards said, "This expansion reflects our commitment to growing Illinois' economy in a way that is both competitive and sustainable. We are attracting world-class productions while building the infrastructure and workforce needed for a cleaner future ensuring that the benefits of this growth are felt statewide."

A "certified green production" is one that formally commits to and achieves recognized environmental sustainability benchmarks, Pritzker's office said. Standards include minimizing waste, reducing energy use and emissions through efficient transportation and equipment, using sustainable materials, and implementing responsible food practices.

A scoring system is used to evaluate productions that was developed by the Illinois Film Office.