Florida Passes Digital Media Incentives Legislation

Florida signed into law on Friday a measure that grants economic incentives to digital interactive media productions in the state, with the Entertainment Software Association applauding the move. SB 1752 makes interactive digital media projects in the state eligible for a 20 percent tax credit for "qualifying production expenses." It's part of the "Jobs for Florida" bill, which also grants tax breaks to movie and TV show creators in an effort to stimulate the state's lagging job market. State Representative Steve Precourt and State Senator Mike Haridopolos spearheaded the bill, which the Entertainment Software Association promptly applauded. "Florida lawmakers are helping to pave the way for exciting new innovations in the entertainment industry,” said ESA president and CEO Michael Gallagher. "These incentives will help keep Florida competitive in the digital media marketplace, attracting and providing 21st century jobs in our growing industry and boosting the state’s economy." The ESA noted that Florida is home to educational facilities related to game development, including The University of Central Florida, St. Petersburg College and the Art Institute of Tampa. The industry trade body ESA said that the incentives in combination with a solid educational base are "an important way to create a business climate in the state that enables students to achieve their academic and career ambitions."