An Oklahoma state senator has proposed tax breaks for game developers, but only if the games being made aren't rated M for Mature by the ESRB.
Films, commercials and TV projects already get tax incentives in the state with only a an obvious restriction on hardcore porn, but games have thus far been left out in the cold. The new proposal was made by Senator Anthony Sykes, who apparently would rather not exclude Mature games, which is hypocritical, given the breaks other media get. However, it seems that pressure from other, grudge-bearing politicians has seen the snub come into effect.
According to Sykes, other senators were very interested in enforcing age restrictions on this tax proposal, and that the only way to get their support was to acquiesce and make the rather petty clause. It's worth pointing out that Oklahoma attempted one of those famous unconstitutional videogame laws in 2006, too, so it has a history of wanting to control videogames. It looks like forcing a restriction into the proposal is a rather bitter way of keeping the spirit of the failed legislation alive.
Either way, shoehorning the age restriction condition into this proposal is a stupid move. With the state already suffering from a budget shortfall, encouraging developers to work in Oklahoma would definitely help. However, since some politicians refuse to let go of this "videogames are evil" mindset, they are cutting off Oklahoma's nose to spite its face. Telling game studios what they can and can't make for a tax break isn't a good way of convincing them to move to your state, geniuses.
Contest:
4:12 PM on 01.24.2009 | 
but how well would this fly if it was against R rated films? lol its like saying u get a tax break on your front tires but not that back
And yet Oklahoma will not tolerate anyone taking a bite out of another’s hamburger and people who make “ugly faces” at dogs may be fined and/or jailed.
So ya Law makers can't really surprise me anymore.
I'm all for Oklahoma putting restrictions on tax breaks for developers. If they do it more of them are likely to stay here in California. This fucked up state needs all the financial help it can get.
I hope that kind of stipulation doesn't pass. They should know limiting to only E & T-rated games doesn't & won't bring in the big numbers like more mature rated games ~_~ .. Just like movies/tv.
At least I'm not working on 'M' themed game at the moment... But, that could change .. I guess there's always moving or face paying more in taxes if it is "M".
hicks
Don't come crying to me Oklahoma, when you can't figure out why new business' don't want to come here.
AND THE WAVING WHEAT!
IT SURE SMELLS SWEET!
WHERE THE WIND COMES RIGHT BEHIND THE RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIN!!!!
Besides, if video game developers can get any break, it'll be worth it. Anyone here honestly want them not to get breaks? Meaning they'd make less or maybe no video games?
Everyone's always the glass is half empty on this crap. Forget how many other states aren't doing jack.
It's easier to convince everyone that Mario is good for the kids, so should get tax breaks.
It's a lot easier to change laws once they become laws.
Look what they did with Guantanamo! People there aren't POWs, or Detained under US law :) They're a happy medium.