Washington, DC — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) alongside Representatives Mike Carey (OH-15) and David Kustoff (TN-08) today introduced the Supporting Cinema Renewal, Enhancement, and Enriching Neighborhoods (SCREEN) Act, legislation to encourage private investment in movie theaters and help revitalize the Main Streets and commercial districts they support.
The SCREEN Act would establish a 30% federal tax credit for qualified movie theater revitalization projects. Eligible improvements include new seating, projection and sound systems, HVAC upgrades, and accessibility improvements. The credit would apply to traditional theaters that have been in operation for at least five years, with a lifetime per theater cap of $250,000 for theaters with three screens or fewer, $375,000 for theaters with four to nine screens, and $500,000 for theaters with ten or more screens. The credit would be available for qualifying investments made through December 31, 2030.
“Strong Main Streets depend on strong local businesses, and movie theaters help bring people into our downtowns where they support restaurants, shops, and other small businesses,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “As theaters work to modernize and compete, they deserve the opportunity to invest in their future. The SCREEN Act encourages private investment, strengthens local economies, creates jobs, and helps preserve these important community gathering places for future generations.”
“Movie theaters are more than just places to see a film. They support local jobs, bring people into our downtowns, and give families a place to spend time together,” said Congressman Mike Carey. “The SCREEN Act will help theaters invest in needed upgrades so they can continue serving their communities, supporting small businesses, and contributing to local economies for years to come.”
This legislation is supported by Cinema United, Marquee Cinemas, Saunders Theatre Properties, and Malco Theatres:
“This timely and important legislation will spur re-investment in one of America’s great Main Street enterprises – the local cinema. Jobs will be created, including local contractors and vendors that do the work, surrounding businesses in the community will benefit, and the result will be a better experience for fans that love seeing their favorite movie on the big screen. We applaud the sponsors of this bill. Because of their leadership, towns of all sizes, in all 50 states, will see a tangible and positive cultural and economic impact in their local communities.” – Michael O’Leary, President and CEO, Cinema United
“On behalf of our team at Orchard 14 in New Hartford, NY, and all 13 of our locations, I want to thank Representative Tenney for introducing the SCREEN Act. Our New Hartford theatre employs 44 full and part-time team members and has been proud to serve this community since 2005. Like many in our industry, we’re continuing to invest in the guest experience even as costs have risen across the board. The SCREEN Act would help us get there faster, bringing the best possible picture quality to our guests and reinforcing the long-term vitality of movie theatres in communities like New Hartford. We’re grateful to Representative Tenney for her leadership on this issue and for supporting exhibition.” – James Cox, Chief Operating Officer, Marquee Cinemas
“Small-town movie theaters are often one of the few places where families, friends, and neighbors can gather and share experiences together. As the owner of four independently owned Ohio theaters, I know how challenging it has become to keep these venues updated while facing rising costs. I have invested millions of dollars into preserving and improving our theaters because I believe small communities deserve exceptional movie-going experiences. The SCREEN Act will help independent theaters continue investing in the places and people we proudly serve, and I thank Representative Carey and the bill’s sponsors for championing this important effort.” – Donna Saunders, Owner and Operator of Saunders Theatre Properties
