Hattiesburg tourism commission law would run through 2031

The proposal would set the repeal date for the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission and its hotel and motel tax authority at July 1, 2031. The provision covers the Hattiesburg Tourism Commission and the local law allowing a tax on overnight room rentals at hotels and motels, excluding properties with 10 or fewer rental units. The city’s governing authorities may choose whether to levy the tax, up to 2% of overnight room charges. The tax does not apply to separate charges such as food, telephone, laundry, or beverages. A voter petition may require an election before the tax is imposed or continued. The proposed repeal would apply from and after July 1, 2031, if the measure were enacted.