MS HB1505

Extends the repeal date of the City of Pascagoula's hotel, motel, and bed-and-breakfast room rental tax from July 1, 2014, to July 1, 2017.

Authorizes the city's governing authorities to levy a tax not exceeding 3% on gross proceeds from room rentals to fund tourism, economic development, and recreation.

Requires a referendum with at least 60% voter approval before the tax can be imposed, with notice published for three consecutive weeks in a local newspaper.

Mandates separate accounting of tax receipts and expenditures from the general fund, with annual independent audits by a certified public accountant.

Tax proceeds must be collected by the Department of Revenue using state sales tax procedures and paid to the city by the fifteenth day of each month.