Warner Bros. Discovery aims to build a new studio in Nevada but needs help from the state first. The entertainment company wants to lease and operate 34 acres called Nevada Studios near Las Vegas, renaming it Warner Bros. Studios Nevada. But Warner Bros. says it can only afford this $8.5 billion, 17-year project if Nevada expands its film tax credit program.
Currently, Nevada only offers $10 million total in tax credits each year for movies and shows. Individual projects are capped at $6 million. Other states like California, New Jersey, and Georgia offer far more to attract productions. “When we talk to Nevadans, boosting our economy and training local workers are top priorities,” said Assemblywoman Roberta Lange. She sponsored a bill to raise Nevada’s tax credit limit to $190 million.
Warner Bros. Chief Operating Officer Simon Robinson said the studio “is fully committed to a long partnership in Nevada.” The deal could benefit both sides. Warner Bros. would establish career programs with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. This could help train locals for high-paying film industry jobs. But the stock market recently decreased Warner Bros.’ value by 70%. The company also carries $37 billion in debt. Unless Nevada expands tax credits, Warner Bros. may not be able to afford building the new studio.
Assemblywoman Lange thinks her tax credit bill now has a better chance to pass the Nevada Senate in early 2025. “Warner Bros.’ interest in Nevada shows that high-quality productions will come if we offer the right incentives,” she said. Sony Pictures also wants to open a studio in Las Vegas under a separate plan. This suggests Nevada’s increasing ambitions to compete as a hub for movies and television.
