Entertainment companies that develop films and video games and complete postproduction work in Georgia could be eligible for tax credits under legislation the House passed Friday.
House Bill 199, the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act, would offer a 20 percent tax credit to companies pursuing film, video or digital work in the state that promotes the Georgia logo and edits those projects in the state.
State Rep. Trey Rhodes, R-Greensboro, who sponsored the bill, said it adds "a third leg" to "create an entire ecosystem" of film, music and video game development in Georgia.
Georgia is the No. 3 filming location in the U.S., behind California and New York. Film production companies can earn tax credits for up to 30 percent of what they spend if they meet certain standards.
State Rep. Mable Thomas, D-Atlanta, spoke before the House in support of the bill, saying it would help Georgians from rural areas and minority communities benefit from increased industry investment.
The bill passed by a vote of 158-3 and will now move to the Senate.
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