Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1754

Introduced
3/15/22  
Refer
3/15/22  
Engrossed
3/18/22  
Refer
3/21/22  

Caption

City of Jackson; authorize increase hotel/motel tax to provide funding for Jackson Convention Center.

Impact

The bill requires that the implementation of this tax is contingent upon approval from the voters, necessitating a sixty percent majority in a local referendum. This democratic process aims to ensure community involvement in local fiscal policies, especially as it pertains to funding civic infrastructure. If enacted, the collected taxes will not only cover operational costs but also pay down any incurred debts associated with the convention center's development.

Summary

House Bill 1754 is designed to enhance the financing of the Capital City Convention Center in Jackson, Mississippi, by allowing local governing authorities to levy an additional hotel and motel tax. This tax can amount to a maximum of one percent on the gross proceeds of hotel and motel room sales, aligning the revenue generation with the needs of the convention center.

Sentiment

Generally, the sentiment surrounding HB 1754 appears positive among hospitality and business groups that see this as a necessary measure to enhance local infrastructure and promote economic development. However, there are concerns from various stakeholders regarding the potential burden on local residents and businesses, particularly if such taxes are perceived as restrictive or overly burdensome.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the provisions related to the referendum process, including the potential frequency of such votes if the tax is initially declined by voters. Some community members express worries that repeated voting could lead to voter fatigue and disengagement, thus complicating the municipality's ability to generate consistent funding for vital services. Additionally, there are discussions about the accountability measures, like how the raised funds will be managed and audited to prevent misallocation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1733

City of Jackson; extend repeal date on convention and visitors bureau and authorize increase in hotel/motel tax.

MS SB3179

City of Jackson; extend repeal date on Convention & Visitors Bureau and tourism tax, and increase hotel/motel tax rate.

MS SB3178

City of Jackson; extend repeal date on 1% restaurant, hotel and motel tax for Convention and Visitors Bureau.

MS HB1565

City of Jackson; extend repeal date on convention and visitors bureau.

MS HB1761

City of Jackson; authorize additional hotel occupancy fee for the upkeep of the Jackson Convention Complex.

MS SB3085

City of Jackson hotel/motel occupancy tax; increase from 75ยข to $2.00 per day for each occupied room.

MS SB3201

Jackson County; repurpose and extend repeal date on tourism tax on hotels and motels.

MS HB1358

Bonds; authorize issuance to assist City of Jackson with construction of a parking lot for the Jackson Convention Center.

MS HB158

Bonds; authorize issuance to assist City of Jackson with construction of a parking lot for the Jackson Convention Center.

MS HB1667

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

Similar Bills

MS HB1757

Harrison County; clarify hotel/motel tax for Coast Coliseum and Convention Center shall solely be applied to overnight room rentals.

MS SB2152

City of Byram; authorize governing authorities to levy parks and recreation tax on restaurants.

MS HB1715

Citizens for Economic Development Act; create.

MS HB1755

City of Moss Point; extend date of repeal on city's restaurant tax.

MS HB596

Ad valorem tax levy for school districts; provide levying authority with discretion to approve request by school board.

MS HB1052

Ad valorem tax levy for school districts; provide levying authority with discretion to approve request by school board.

MS HB1654

City of Pascagoula; extend tourism tax levied on prepared food sold at restaurants.

MS HB205

Ad valorem tax levy for school districts; provide levying authority with discretion to approve request by school board.