L.A. Production Crisis Now Mayoral Race Flashpoint

Key Points:

• Los Angeles has experienced a significant decline in filming activity, with TV show production days in 2025 dropping over 50% below the five-year average and feature films down more than 30%, highlighting a growing production downturn despite previous streaming content spending.
• California Governor Gavin Newsom raised the state’s film incentive cap from $330 million to $750 million in an effort to attract more production, though New York and Georgia still offer more generous programs; industry leaders note that covering above-the-line costs through tax credits could make California more competitive.
• The L.A. City Council approved measures in March to combat the decline, including faster soundstage certification, improved permit coordination, an independent audit of the permitting system, and free “microshoots” permits, alongside proposals for greater transparency and fee waivers for small productions.
• Leading mayoral candidates have prioritized the filming crisis with various proposals: Rick Pratt advocates for slashing location fees and creating a concierge team for productions, Mayor Karen Bass has streamlined processes and reduced on-set city staff requirements, while Nithya Raman calls for more urgent and comprehensive reforms to support the industry.
• Raman, previously quiet on the issue despite her entertainment ties, criticized current efforts as insufficient and delayed, emphasizing the need for a proactive city film office and reduced bureaucratic obstacles to prevent further job losses in Hollywood.