MS SB3207

Amends the Jackson Convention and Visitors Bureau law to remove the July 1, 2011 repeal date, making the bureau and its funding mechanism permanent.

Authorizes the bureau to enter contracts with governmental authorities, public agencies, private entities, and persons to support tourism and convention programs, with contract terms up to 10 years.

Authorizes the bureau to acquire, construct, improve, and finance buildings and facilities for tourism and conventions, with contract terms up to 25 years, and to borrow funds and issue debt for these purposes.

Maintains the existing 1% tourist and convention tax on gross proceeds of sales from restaurants, hotels, and motels in Jackson, with revenues dedicated to bureau operations and tourism promotion programs.

Requires annual independent audits of bureau finances, establishes conflict-of-interest restrictions on contracting, and subjects the bureau to Mississippi's Public Records Act.