The Recording Academy Atlanta Chapter and Georgia Music Partners were privileged to be in attendance on May 30 at the Georgia State Capitol, where Governor Nathan Deal signed into law House Bill 155, the Georgia Music Investment Act.

Designed with the goal of creating music industry jobs throughout the state, the Georgia Music Investment Act will require a 15 percent refundable tax incentive to be offered for projects recorded or scored in Georgia and for tours that rehearse and start in the state.

Georgia Music Partners, cofounded by Michele Rhea Caplinger, Sr. Executive Director for The Recording Academy Atlanta Chapter, demonstrated back in 2011 that music's multiplier effect helps add billions of dollars to Georgia's economy. Having just celebrated Georgia Music Day in February, the Atlanta Chapter has been working hard to help bring this bill to fruition, which will go into effect in 2018.

(l-r) John Hopkins (Zac Brown Band), Tammy Hurt, Mala Sharma, Governor Nathan Deal, Michele Caplinger, Ed Roland (Collective Soul)
Photo: Courtesy of the Office of Governor Nathan Deal

"We boast a lush creative community with countless GRAMMY nominees and winners each year, yet we watch those same music VIP's leave the state to make a living elsewhere. By passing HB-155 we will retain and attract both talent and music projects, which will grow our music ecosystem," said Caplinger.

"I am very thankful to the lawmakers and specifically Gov. Deal for recognizing and encouraging the arts in the state of Georgia. This victory will help grow the music economy in our great state," added Ed Roland of Collective Soul, 

This victory precedes the Atlanta Chapter's Summer Member Celebration on July 20, which will provide the local music community with an opportunity to not only celebrate but acknowledge the many great public servants and artists who worked hard to make this goal a new reality.

More advocacy at The Academy: Go inside the 2017 GRAMMYs on the Hill Awards