MS SB3026

Removes the July 1, 2011, repeal date from Chapter 956, Local and Private Laws of 2008, making the hotel and motel tax permanent for the City of Ripley, Mississippi

Authorizes the City of Ripley to levy up to 2% tax on gross proceeds from hotel and motel room rentals and up to 2% tax on gross proceeds from restaurant sales

Requires a local election where 60% of qualified voters must approve the tax before it can be implemented

Dedicates tax proceeds solely to promoting tourism and encouraging retired persons to relocate to the Ripley area, with 3% retained by the Department of Revenue for collection costs

Requires separate accounting and annual independent audits of the tax funds, which must be kept separate from the city's general fund