City of Hattiesburg; extend repealer on tourism commission and hotel/motel tax.

Hotel guests may pay Hattiesburg tax

The law extends the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission and the City’s authority to levy a lodging tax through July 1, 2031. The City can set the tax at up to 2% of room charges at hotels and motels with more than 10 units; separately listed food, phone, laundry, drinks, and similar charges are excluded. Guests pay only if the City levies the tax after required notice. A petition signed by 20% of qualified voters or 1,500 voters, whichever is fewer, triggers an election. The Department of Revenue collects the tax, keeps 3%, and sends the rest to the City for Commission programs, which require separate accounts and annual audits. Existing debt pledges remain protected, and each Commission member must post a $50,000 bond.