The Empire State Music Production Tax Credit, which proponents believe will attract more music production jobs across New York State, passed in both the Assembly and Senate on Thursday in Albany. If signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the bill will provide a 25 percent tax credit for eligible production costs downstate (NYC), and a 35 percent break for upstate music businesses. The program is capped at $25 million per year. To be eligible, costs must be related to job creation, rental fees, session fees for musicians/engineers, etc., mixing and mastering services, transportation, or for music video production. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Martin Golden and Assemblyman Joseph Lentol, received widespread support from the local music industry, which has been looking for ways to keep jobs and productions from shipping off to places like Canada. "For too long, we have all watched as iconic recording studios, retail outlets and other businesses necessary for a healthy Ne...