Texas hails videogames contribution
US state acknowledges economic impact with Entertainment Software Day
The US state of Texas has labelled February 3 as Entertainment Software Day, recognising the impact that the industry has had on the local economy, with both state legislatures passing resolutions to that effect.
It's the first time the entertainment software industry has been recognised in such a way, and follows a bill passed in 2007 which provides tax rebates to videogame companies in Texas.
"The support of Governor Perry, Senator Deuell and Representative Dukes for the entertainment software industry in Texas is an endorsement of the artistic and economic contributions our industry has made to the state," said Michael D Gallagher, CEO of the ESA. "These lawmakers are helping grow our industry as we work to create new jobs for Texans; boost the state's economy; and help discover new ways computer and videogames can improve the ways Americans live, work and play."
In 2006 the industry was responsible for contributing USD 395 million to the local economy, growing by 16 per cent in the process.