Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2519

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  
Engrossed
3/16/23  
Refer
3/21/23  
Enrolled
3/27/23  

Caption

Town of Monticello; authorize tourism tax on restaurants, hotels and motels.

Impact

The implementation of this tax is intended to generate additional revenue aimed at supporting tourism-related initiatives without compromising existing tax structures. By generating fund specifically for tourism and recreation, the bill potentially enhances the quality of local amenities and attractions, which may ultimately benefit the overall economy of Monticello. However, the bill also establishes that these tax proceeds are not to be treated as general fund revenues, ensuring they are used exclusively as intended for community enrichment.

Summary

Senate Bill 2519 authorizes the governing authorities of the Town of Monticello, Mississippi, to levy a tax on the gross proceeds from room rentals in hotels and motels, as well as sales of food and beverages at local restaurants. The tax rate for both hotels and restaurants is capped at two percent (2%). The funds collected will be earmarked specifically to promote tourism and enhance parks and recreation in Monticello and nearby areas. This dedicated approach aims to stimulate local economic development while addressing community needs related to tourism and recreational activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2519 appears to be predominantly positive with respect to local economic growth. Many community members and legislators view this tax as a proactive measure that can help increase local tourism efforts and improve city infrastructure catering to visitors. Nonetheless, there may be concerns, albeit minimal, regarding the financial burden that business owners might face due to that tax, especially in an already challenging economic environment.

Contention

A notable point of contention arises from the need for public approval before the tax can be implemented. The bill mandates that the governing authorities must hold a public election to gauge local support, requiring a supermajority (60% approval) to move forward with the tax levy. This stipulation ensures community involvement in decision-making but may also introduce delays in the actual realization of the tax revenues.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2154

Town of Monticello; authorize tourism tax on restaurants, hotels and motels.

MS SB3219

Town of Vaiden; authorize tax on restaurants, hotels and motels for tourism and parks & recreation.

MS HB1523

City of Saltillo; authorize tourism tax on hotels, motels and restaurants.

MS HB1807

City of Eupora; authorize tourism tax on hotels/motels/Airbnbs and restaurants.

MS HB4119

City of Morton; authorize tax on hotels, motels and restaurants to fund tourism, parks and recreation in.

MS SB2248

City of Amory; authorize to enact a tax on hotels, motels and restaurants for tourism and parks and recreation.

MS HB1936

Town of Como; extend date of repeal to levy tax on hotels, motels and restaurants.

MS HB1667

City of Florence; authorize a tax on restaurants and hotels/motels.

MS HB1722

Town of Walnut; authorize tax on hotels/motels, restaurants for parks and recreational facilities.

MS SB2139

City of West Point; extend repealer on authority to levy tax on hotels, motels and restaurants for tourism and parks & rec.

Similar Bills

MS SB2154

Town of Monticello; authorize tourism tax on restaurants, hotels and motels.

MS SR38

Commend Addie Carver as Mississippi representative to be crowned "Miss Teen USA."

VA HR650

Celebrating the life of Daniel Porter Jordan, Jr.

VA SR609

Celebrating the life of Daniel Porter Jordan, Jr.

MS SB3148

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to Monticello, Mississippi, for construction of a retaining wall.

MS SB3235

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the Town of Monticello for a new Pearl River retaining wall.

MS SB3147

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to Monticello, Mississippi, for improvements to a certain annex building.

MS SB3234

General Fund; FY2026 appropriation to the Town of Monticello for City Hall and Police Department Annex repairs.