West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB675

Introduced
2/6/24  
Refer
2/6/24  
Engrossed
2/22/24  
Refer
2/26/24  
Refer
2/23/24  

Caption

Establishing accreditation deadline for convention and visitors bureaus

Impact

The enactment of SB675 will directly affect the operational standards for convention and visitors bureaus within West Virginia, specifically governing how they manage and report their financial activities. It requires that these organizations allocate specific percentages of their annual budgets to various operational areas like advertising, personnel, and other expenses. Furthermore, the bill mandates annual reporting to stakeholders, thereby enhancing oversight and ensuring that appropriated hotel occupancy tax revenues are used effectively for their intended purposes.

Summary

Senate Bill 675 aims to amend the Code of West Virginia regarding the accreditation process for convention and visitors bureaus, with a particular focus on how these entities qualify for distributions from hotel occupancy tax proceeds. The bill outlines specific financial reporting requirements that the bureaus must meet to receive funding. Importantly, it establishes a deadline for existing bureaus to obtain and maintain accreditation from an appropriate accrediting body, with a final deadline set for June 30, 2026. This measure is intended to enhance accountability and transparency in the use of tax funds designated for tourism and community promotion activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally supportive among legislators who recognize the need for greater oversight and accountability in the allocation of hotel occupancy taxes. However, there may be concerns from some bureaus about the feasibility of meeting the new requirements within the established timeframe. Supporters argue that this bill will not only improve the operational standards but will also foster public trust in how tourism-related tax revenues are spent. Conversely, some representatives may voice reservations about the implications for smaller bureaus that may struggle to comply with the stringent accreditation and reporting requirements.

Contention

One notable point of contention in discussions around SB675 includes the moratorium placed on the establishment of new convention and visitors bureaus until June 30, 2025. This aspect seeks to consolidate existing operations and facilitate compliance with the new standards, but may be seen as limiting opportunities for new entities to enter the tourism promotion sector. Critics may argue that this could stifle competition and innovation in promoting local tourism, while proponents believe it will strengthen the viability and effectiveness of existing bureaus by ensuring they meet robust operational standards.

Companion Bills

WV HB5382

Similar To Relating to setting a date by which convention and visitor’s bureaus shall be accredited in order to be eligible for distribution of hotel occupancy tax proceeds.

Previously Filed As

WV HB3387

Extending the moratorium on the authorization of new convention and visitors bureaus for an additional two years

WV HB2213

Limit number of visitor bureaus that can exist in a county

WV SB286

Relating to proceeds and application of hotel occupancy tax

WV HB2600

Making disbursement of hotel occupancy tax wholly discretionary

WV SB62

Establishing secondary location for racetrack video lottery terminals

WV HB3031

Eliminating West Virginia Greyhound Breeding Development Fund

WV SB684

Maintaining nursing board standards and accreditation

WV SB488

Aligning state and federal accreditation rules

WV HB2868

Establishing the Municipal Home Rule Program

WV SB515

Clarifying deadline to file annual report for companies authorized to do business in WV

Similar Bills

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD SB360

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2025)

MD HB200

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

MD SB181

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2024)

PA HB611

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD HB300

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2023)