Hawai‘i’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique climate have made it one of the most sought-after destinations for filmmakers worldwide. From recent productions like NCIS: Hawai‘i, the live-action Lilo & Stitch, Moana, and Rescue: HI-Surf to legendary franchises like Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and Pirates of the Caribbean, the film industry has showcased Hawai‘i’s beauty to global audiences. But this thriving industry is now at risk. Restrictive caps on film tax incentives threaten not only the future of the industry but also the livelihoods of thousands of Hawai‘i residents and businesses.

Why This Matters

The film industry is more than entertainment—it’s a powerful driver of Hawai‘i’s economy and a vital part of our community. Productions pump millions of dollars directly into the local economy, purchasing supplies from businesses like City Mill and other local vendors. A single TV season can generate over $1 million in lumber sales alone! Beyond materials, productions hire local talent, rent equipment, book hotel rooms, and patronize local restaurants.

This money doesn’t just stop with the productions. It ripples outward—supporting jobs, boosting tourism, and fueling advertising and other industries. It’s clean, green, and sustainable economic growth. But when productions choose other locations because of capped tax incentives, that ripple effect reverses. Jobs are lost, businesses suffer, and our economy stagnates. Tourism also takes a major hit, as fewer films and shows showcase Hawai‘i to the world.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

 

 

• Between 2016 and 2021, Hawai‘i’s film industry generated over $400 million annually in production expenditures.

 

• In 2021 alone, it created nearly 4,200 jobs, $728 million in economic impact, and $45.5 million in state and local tax revenue.

 

• Film-related tourism in 2022 brought $1 billion in visitor spending, $121.6 million in state tax revenues, and supported 4.8 million visitor days.

 

 

 

 

Without competitive tax incentives, these benefits vanish, leaving Hawai‘i’s economy and communities to bear the loss.

How the Current Cap Hurts Hawai‘i

The $50 million annual cap and $17 million per-production limit discourage large-scale productions from choosing Hawai‘i. Productions often plan years in advance and need the certainty of stable, competitive incentives. When those incentives aren’t there, they go elsewhere—taking jobs, revenue, and opportunities with them.

Neighbor island communities are hit especially hard. These areas rely on filming dollars to sustain businesses and provide jobs. Additional incentives for neighbor island filming can ensure these communities continue to see the benefits of a thriving film industry.

 

 

 

 

Our Request

We urge Hawai‘i’s legislators to act now to protect and expand the film industry by raising or eliminating the cap on film tax credits. Doing so will:

• Sustain and grow the thousands of jobs the industry supports annually.

 

• Promote local hiring and spending, directly benefiting small businesses and families.

 

• Encourage filming on neighbor islands, ensuring equitable economic distribution statewide.
  Keep Hawai‘i competitive as a global film destination.

 

Call to Action - Make your voice count! Sign the petition & contact your representatives 🙏

 

This is about more than film—it’s about jobs, businesses, families, and Hawai‘i’s future. Signing this petition is not just adding your name; it sends a direct message to lawmakers that their constituents demand action.

 

Contact your representatives. Find their information here.
Learn more by downloading the Hawai‘i Film Incentive Information prepared for the Hawai‘i Local Board and Legislative Committee.
Together, We Can Save Hawai‘i’s Film Industry

 

Hawai‘i Film Incentive Information

 

Hawai‘i deserves to remain a beacon for filmmakers, a hub for economic growth, and a source of pride for its residents. With your help, we can protect and expand this vital industry.

 

Mahalo for your support! Let’s keep Hawai‘i shining on the global stage. Visit www.SaveHawaiiFilm.com for more details, and let’s keep Hawai‘i’s film industry shining bright!