Louisiana House Bill HB794

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12

Caption

Provides relative to a hotel/motel tax levied by the city of New Orleans (OR +$9,600,000 LF RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 794 would substantially influence local tax regulations, allowing for increased revenue generation from hotel occupancy specifically within the city limits. The added funds from this tax increase would be directly used to promote tourism, which is critical for sustaining and growing New Orleans' economy. This modification reflects considerations of market dynamics and the potential to elevate the city's competitive edge in attracting visitors.

Summary

House Bill 794 aims to modify the hotel occupancy tax levied by the city of New Orleans, increasing the maximum allowable rate from the current half percent to one and three-quarters percent. The bill intends to empower the governing authority of the city to levy this increased tax on the occupancy of hotel rooms, which can contribute significantly to local revenue streams. It is positioned as a tool for enhancing tourism promotion efforts within New Orleans, a city that heavily relies on tourism for its economic vitality.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 794 seems to skew positively among proponents who view the tax increase as a necessary measure to bolster funding for tourism initiatives. However, concerns may arise among some local businesses and residents who could perceive the tax hike as an additional financial burden that might deter visitors. Overall, the discussions appear to reflect a balance between the need for increased revenue and the potential implications on local business activity.

Contention

There are notable points of contention related to the potential effects of increasing the hotel occupancy tax. Critics might argue that raising taxes could discourage people from visiting New Orleans, particularly during competitive seasons when travelers consider various destinations. Advocates, on the other hand, emphasize that the increased tax revenue will ultimately enhance tourism facilities, allowing for more robust marketing campaigns and attracting a higher volume of visitors, which could offset any adverse impacts of the tax increment.