Hattiesburg’s tourism commission and hotel tax authority last until 2031

Hattiesburg may collect a tax of up to 2% on overnight room rentals to fund its tourism commission. The tax covers Hattiesburg hotels and motels with more than 10 overnight rental units. Operators add it to guests’ room charges. The tax excludes charges for meals, laundry, and similar extras. Tax revenue goes solely to the commission’s work after the state keeps 3% for collection costs. Before imposing the tax, the city must adopt a resolution and publish notice. If 20% of qualified city voters or 1,500 voters, whichever is fewer, petition against it during the notice period, a majority voting must approve it. The law takes effect upon passage. The commission and tax authority expire on July 1, 2031.