Paramount CEO Advocates for Federal Film Tax Incentive in Congressional Meeting

By Adrian Cole

David Ellison, CEO of Paramount, and Chief Legal Officer Makan Delrahim met with members of the House Ways & Means Committee to advocate for a federal film tax incentive. The meeting, held on Monday, sought to promote legislative support for the film industry by reinstating Section 181 of the tax code and establishing a more robust federal incentive.

Ellison's efforts align with ongoing legislative actions, including H.R. 4787, a bill introduced in July 2025, which aims to extend deductions for film and television production. This bill is currently under consideration by the same committee.

Additionally, Representatives Laura Friedman and Adam Schiff are drafting legislation to create a broader federal film and television tax incentive, further supporting Ellison's initiative.

Ellison has previously communicated his commitment to maintaining film production in Los Angeles, pledging to expand Paramount's film slate and operations on its studio lot. His letter to California lawmakers emphasized the need for federal incentives to keep projects and jobs within the United States.