Benson Pledged New Arts Department and Film Incentives
Democratic candidate Jocelyn Benson plans to revive film tax incentives to boost Michigan's economy if elected.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Elections
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Democratic gubernatorial candidate and current Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has proposed a plan to reinstate film tax incentives. She also intends to create a new state department for arts and tourism to draw filmmakers and sporting events to Michigan.
Why it matters
Benson aims to address state economic health issues and counteract forecasts of sluggish population growth. The proposed initiative includes an outward-facing marketing campaign intended to revitalize the state's arts economy.
The proposed plan includes the creation of a new state department through an executive order in the first month of office. Michigan previously utilized a film tax incentive program between 2008 and 2015 before it was discontinued.
The players
Jocelyn Benson
She is the Democratic candidate for governor and currently serves as the Michigan Secretary of State.
Big Sean
He is a prominent musical artist who appeared with Benson at a campaign event in Detroit.
The details
Benson outlined her vision while campaigning at the Irwin House gallery in Detroit alongside Big Sean. She believes that targeted investments in film and the arts will help attract talent and events to improve Michigan's economic standing.
Timeline
The state's previous film tax incentive program began in 2008.
Michigan discontinued its film tax incentive program in 2015.
Jocelyn Benson visited an amusement park in Muskegon in August 2026.
Benson appeared at a campaign event in Detroit on September 25, 2026.
The Michigan gubernatorial election takes place on November 3, 2026.
Political Context
Benson's proposal to revive the state's historical film tax incentive program is countered by critics who question the long-term economic return of such subsidies. Opponents frequently argue that taxpayer-funded incentives for the arts may not produce the sustainable job growth needed to offset Michigan's population decline.
If enacted, the policy would create a new state agency and restore financial incentives for production companies moving projects to Michigan. Residents may see increased marketing and development of the local arts economy as part of the state's efforts to attract tourism and creative talent.
The takeaway
Candidates often use specific economic proposals to appeal to voters concerned about regional growth and cultural retention. Tracking these policy plans helps voters understand how different gubernatorial platforms may influence the state budget and future economic priorities.
Further reading
For more background on the state's upcoming races, visit our Michigan Elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mlive.
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Do you support using state tax incentives to attract film and arts production to your state?
