MS HB1665

Extends the repeal date for the 2% tax on restaurant prepared food and beer/alcoholic beverage sales from July 1, 2018 to July 1, 2022, allowing continued collection by the Columbus-Lowndes Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Simplifies the bureau's composition from nine members with specific industry representatives to nine at-large members: four appointed by Columbus City Council, four by Lowndes County Board of Supervisors, and one jointly appointed by the Mayor and Board President.

Requires the bureau to annually contribute $250,000 to the Golden Triangle Development Link from the tax proceeds distributed to the bureau.

Mandates the bureau maintain a monthly claims docket as a public record documenting all demands, claims and accounts against the bureau.

Clarifies that the tax previously imposed without a vote must be ratified through a petition and election process, with provisions allowing continuation if no protest is filed within the specified timeframe.