MS HB1431

Extends the repeal date of the City of Baldwyn's authority to levy taxes on hotels, motels, restaurants, and convenience stores from July 1, 2015, to July 1, 2018.

Authorizes taxes up to 2% on gross proceeds from hotel and motel room rentals and up to 2% on gross proceeds from restaurant and convenience store prepared food sales.

Requires the city governing authorities to adopt a resolution declaring their intention to continue the tax and publish notice for three consecutive weeks, with a 45-60 day protest period for qualified electors.

Requires an indirect referendum if 20% or 1,500 qualified electors (whichever is less) file a written protest, with a 60% majority vote needed to continue the tax.

Dedicates all tax proceeds (minus 3% retained by the Department of Revenue for collection costs) solely to promoting tourism and encouraging retired persons to relocate to or remain in the Baldwyn area.