The Louisiana Board of Commerce and Industry held a brief meeting to extend the Industrial Tax Exemption Program emergency rule, which was set to expire on Oct. 21. This rule was originally implemented in response to Governor Jeff Landry’s executive order. ITEP offers tax breaks to industries that invest in the state, and the emergency rule has been in effect since April. The board’s decision to renew the rule grants another 180 days for further negotiations between state leaders and industry stakeholders on permanent regulations. A draft of the long-term rules is expected to be presented in mid-November for public review. The renewal ensures that ITEP continues to operate without disruption while the formal rulemaking process continues. Landry’s executive order reinforced Louisiana’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program , setting stricter criteria for approving tax exemptions for manufacturers. It requires projects to demonstrate community investment, limits exemptions to new and expanding manufacturing facilities, and excludes routine maintenance and environmental upgrades from eligibility. The order also mandates local government approval for ITEP contracts, ensuring community involvement in the process.