New Law Expands Entertainment Incentives to Music Industry

by SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS

Huntsville Music Officer Matt Mandrella joins Gov. Kay Ivey, Film Officer Meghann Bridgeman, and legislators for the ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 177—marking a transformative moment for Alabama’s music economy.

In a defining moment for Alabama’s creative sector, Governor Kay Ivey was joined by state officials and music leaders—including Huntsville Music Officer Matt Mandrella—on Thursday, July 31, for the ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 177, a sweeping update to Alabama’s Entertainment Industry Incentive Act of 2009.

The legislation, which takes effect October 1, 2025, expands the state’s economic support for entertainment by officially including music albums as qualified productions under Alabama’s rebate program. Until now, only film and television productions benefited from these incentives.

“Music creators in Alabama now have access to the same types of production incentives that have long benefitted the film and television industries,” said Matt Mandrella, who leads Huntsville’s efforts to grow its music ecosystem. “It’s a giant step forward in empowering our state’s artists, producers, and record labels.”

The updated law also rebrands the Alabama Film Office as the Alabama Entertainment Office, signaling a broader embrace of diverse creative industries. It raises the annual cap for incentives to $22 million, with $2 million specifically set aside for music album production—an unprecedented move in the state’s history.

“This legislation sends a strong message that Alabama is serious about supporting the music industry,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “From studios to songwriters, we have created an environment where talent can thrive. I appreciate the work of our state leaders and the influence of the City’s Music Officer in this milestone achievement.”

“We hope to continue attracting outstanding projects in music and film to our state,” added Meghann Bridgeman, Chief Officer of the Alabama Entertainment Office. “And we are committed to sustaining, growing, and retaining Alabama’s cherished creative talent.”

For a city like Huntsville, already rising as a music destination through events like the Tangled String Festival and the leadership of its Music Office, the law is expected to fuel job creation, stimulate tourism, and attract outside investment in music production infrastructure.

To learn more about Huntsville’s music initiatives, visit HuntsvilleMusic.com.

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