MO HB643

Allows the governing body of a third-classification county without township government with 16,000-18,000 inhabitants and a county seat city of 8,000-9,000 inhabitants to impose a sales tax of up to 2% on all retail sales subject to chapter 144 to fund county hospital operations.

Requires voter approval through a state general, primary, or special election before the sales tax becomes effective; tax takes effect the first day of the second calendar quarter after the Department of Revenue receives notification if approved by a majority of voters.

Authorizes the county to abolish the property tax currently authorized to fund the county hospital and replace it with the sales tax revenue.

Establishes a "County Hospital Sales Tax Fund" to receive all collected revenue except 1% for collection costs; funds cannot be commingled with state funds and must be used solely for hospital purposes.

Permits voters to repeal the sales tax through a county election or through a petition signed by at least 10% of registered voters from the last gubernatorial election; repeal becomes effective December 31st of the approval year.