MS HB1781

Extends the repeal date of the Hancock County Tourism Development Bureau from July 1, 2017, to July 1, 2021.

Maintains the bureau's authority to levy a tax not exceeding 2% on gross proceeds of sales from room rentals by hotels, motels, and similar establishments in Hancock County.

Continues the nine-member bureau composition with appointments by the Board of Supervisors (4 members), cities of Bay St. Louis and Waveland (2 members each), and Hancock County Chamber of Commerce (1 member).

Allows the Board of Supervisors to contract with not-for-profit organizations for tourism advertising, marketing, and promotion services while preserving the bureau's existing authority.

Tax proceeds, minus 3% retained by the Department of Revenue for collection costs, are dedicated solely to tourism promotion activities in Hancock County.