Kentucky is pausing its film incentive program after nearing its $75m annual cap.
Jeff Noel, economic development secretary, announced the pausing of the Kentucky Entertainment Incentive [KEI] program during the April 24 monthly meeting of the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority.
In a statement, Noel said: "We will share information about any changes to the KEI program as they are finalised, and we look forward to continuing to work with projects that align with Team Kentucky’s objectives and benefit our residents."
The state approved approximately $50 million in tax credits for 38 projects across 2025. In 2024, KEI program approved $67 million in credits. Screen Global Production reached out to the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority for comment.
During the meeting, Noel said: “Let’s make sure that the application of limited credits go towards the best projects that meet the goals and objectives the state of Kentucky and fully benefits the state of Kentucky better than perhaps the other,” Noel said in the board meeting.
“So we are going to pause consideration of any additional programs for a period of time. This allows staff ... to listen to the comments and some of the issues that have been raised by this very good board over the last couple of weeks.” (Via the Lexington Herald Ledger.)
Films to shoot in the US state include Red Right Hand for Magnolia Pictures Andie MacDowell and Orlando Bloom, and Roadside's lauded indie-film Bob Trevino Likes It starring Barbie Ferreira and John Leguizamo.
