The state that once passed the Thompson Game Law became a great deal more developer friendly today, as Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal signs extensive tax credits for game development into law.
The Louisiana Digital Media Act, sponsored by Senator Ann Duplessis, grants a 25% credit to game developers for digital interactive media expenditures, as well as a 10% credit on state payroll taxes. It's a very generous incentive that could see a growth in the number of development studios calling the state home. The Entertainment Software Association applauded the Governor's approval.
"We commend Governor Jindal for his strong leadership as well as that of Senator Duplessis for expanding the state's computer and video game development and production base, and helping lead the way in creating the next generation of entertainment innovation in Louisiana," said Michael D. Gallagher, president and CEO of the ESA, which represents U.S. computer and video game publishers. "Developers and publishers live and work for years in states where games are created, providing a higher return on investment than any form of entertainment."
Not too shabby for a state with baby bird vampires on its flag, right?
A growing number of states either have or are looking into implementing similar incentives, a reassuring sign that state governments are understand just how serious the video game business is.