The work of economic development recruitment is like a civilized war. A bill headed to Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant’s desk would equip state and local business recruiters with a more efficient weapon with which to compete.

The bill, Senate Bill 2479, would lower the threshold at which large economic development projects would become eligible for a significant tax break.

Currently, state law allows new development projects that surpass $100 million in investment to be eligible to cut its ad valorem taxes by up to two-thirds.

If Bryant signs the bill into law — and we hope he does — the threshold would be lowered to $60 million in investment.

Important to note is that the lowered level would make Mississippi more competitive with neighboring states.

While some critics may argue against providing such breaks, an important consideration is that such investments would be either new businesses investment or existing businesses expanding.

Also of note, the amount of the payment in lieu of taxes or fee in lieu of taxes is negotiated so local leaders still have a say in what is offered.

Such incentives are important for economic developers to help level the playing field with nearby states and seek to gain sorely needed investment in our state.

For Mississippi to grow economically, we must have outside investments to hire Mississippi-based employees to make world-class products and provide world-class services.

Governor Bryant’s signature on this bill is a step in that direction.