The MBA is similar to the Virginia Biotechnology Association. The MBA is a private organization comprised of about 600 persons and dedicated to promoting biotechnology and bioscience in Maryland. For example, the MBA hosts bioscience conventions and shows, tries to inform high school students of occupational opportunities in biotechnology, and helps community colleges in Maryland with their associates degree programs and certificate programs in biotechnology. He stated that Virginia's biotechnology industry has more companies than Maryland's, employs more people, and pays higher average wage. Several Virginia companies, however, have been relocating to Maryland because Maryland invests more money and efforts trying to attract biotechnology companies than Virginia does.
New Jersey is also aggressive in attracting biotechnology companies.
For example, Virginia's House Bill 1667 of the 1999 Session, which would have granted research and development tax credits, was based on New Jersey's legislation. Mr. small outlined some of the legislative priorities to help Virginia's biotechnology industry. Mr. Small recommended two tax programs. First was the creation of transferable research and development tax credit program. House Bill 1667 of the 1999 Session, as introduced, would have created such a program.