Qualifying cities could raise hotel taxes to six percent
A qualifying city that spans more than one county could raise its hotel-room tax to six percent if local voters approve the increase.
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What it does
A qualifying city that already collects this hotel tax could raise it to six percent per occupied room, but voters must approve the increase first.
Argument forThe increase could give a qualifying city money for new tourism projects, such as visitor facilities or other capital improvements.
Argument againstHotel guests could pay more because the increase is added to room charges and other taxes if voters approve it.
More detail
A qualifying city may increase its hotel-room tax percentage. This applies to a city with more than 51,000 but fewer than 58,000 residents that lies in more than one county and already imposes this tax. The total tax may not exceed six percent per occupied room per night. Voters must approve the increase at an allowed election before it takes effect. The increase must be listed separately from the room charge and other taxes. Money from a voter-approved increase must fund construction and maintenance of new tourism-related capital projects. The city may use this authority on or after the provision's effective date; the supplied text does not state that date.
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