THE STATE OF GAMING IN MICHIGAN

With the Michigan economy in trouble, Governor Granholm is now pushing for a Video Game Industry TAX Break for companies willing to move to Michigan.

This Bill, which also includes the Movie and TV industries, is said to help stimulate the economy here in Michigan. All that is needed is a vote on the Michigan Senate floor and the Bill passes.

I find it really funny that Granholm, once an opponent of video games, is now trying to work with this industry. It just shows you, that politicians are so wishy-washy with policy, they just follow the money! Don't get me wrong, I live here in Michigan and want to see this economy recover. I just have a feeling that most major video game companies will see right through this and choose not to move on this tax break!

Really, why would a video game company move to Michigan?

* Do we have a Pro Gaming stop on the tour, either with MLG (Major League Gaming) or CGS (Championship Gaming Series)?

* Do we have an area now for them to move into and the infrastructure to support these companies? Remember, game companies like to be located in happening, hip areas near each other. I would say downtown Detroit but the city can't support major business right now, TRUST ME!

* Why would a company move to a State were its Major city is filled with corruption!

* Can you trust a government that once opposed you? I can just see them now, trying to hold that tax break over there heads once the make the move!

It may sound like I'm against this but I'm not! Hell, I do a Video Game Show for CBS in Detroit, which would be great for us at PWNED! I just feel it's too late for the administration and maybe once we get a new regime in Lansing and Detroit, these companies may take us seriously!

Thanks for letting me vent a little! I say we form a PRO GAMING TEAM right here in Michigan called PWNED ROCKCITY! Now we just need a team sponsor! I know we have the talent right here in MICHIGAN and could win these major tournament tours! Bring some Championships and Money back to Michigan! If you would like to sponsor our Michigan Pro Team, email me!

BELOW IS THE NEW BILL ARTICLE:

Michigan Forging Ahead on Tax Breaks for Games, Movies

Once an opponent of video games, Gov. Jennifer Granholm is now pushing legislation that will provide tax incentives encouraging film and video game production in Michigan. The proposal would grant the industry 40% state tax credit or rebate on production costs for movies, TV shows, miniseries, documentaries, video games and Internet programs.

“We have an opportunity to do something that will provide an immediate stimulus to our ailing economy,” said House Commerce Chairman Andy Meisner.

The bill has passed the House and only the rebate segment is awaiting approval by the Senate. The incentive would be the most enticing in the nation.

This could open up some great possibilities for the industry. If you want to get into the games industry, you pretty much have to be willing to move to Texas or California. Having studios in the Midwest would be a boon for some of us.via WILX