On May 13, 2025, the Teamsters union released a statement regarding a proposal for federal film tax incentives. The statement was issued by Sean M. O’Brien, Teamsters General President, and Lindsay Dougherty, Teamsters Motion Picture Division Director.
The union criticized the current practice of American film and TV studios outsourcing union jobs, which they argue undermines crews in the United States for financial gain. “Shamefully it is the norm today for American film and TV studios to outsource the union jobs that build their industry, gutting crews here at home for the sake of their bottom line,” said O’Brien and Dougherty. They called this trend a result of corporate greed that takes work away from California and other major production locations in the country.
O’Brien and Dougherty argued that introducing a federal film tax credit is necessary to rebuild union jobs domestically and prevent studios from moving labor overseas. “A federal film tax credit is long overdue,” they stated.
The statement also expressed gratitude towards President Trump for prioritizing American workers. It urged Congress to act quickly to pass legislation supporting families in the industry: “The Teamsters thank President Trump for putting American workers first, and we call on Congress to act swiftly to pass a budget bill that supports the working families who call this industry home.”
Furthermore, they highlighted ongoing efforts by the Teamsters to improve labor conditions in Hollywood but emphasized the need for support from elected officials: “The Teamsters have been leading the fight to restore the dignity of labor to Hollywood. But we need the help of our elected officials to finally make it a reality.”
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million members across North America. More information can be found on their website or social media platforms.
