MS HB653

Extends the repeal date for taxes on hotel and motel room rentals and restaurant/convenience store food sales in Baldwyn from July 1, 2018 to July 1, 2023.

Authorizes the City of Baldwyn to levy taxes up to 2% on hotel/motel gross room rental proceeds and up to 2% on restaurant and convenience store prepared food sales to promote tourism and encourage retired persons to relocate to the area.

Requires the Department of Revenue to collect the taxes using state sales tax procedures, retaining 3% for collection costs before distributing remaining proceeds to the city by the 15th of the following month.

Mandates separate accounting and annual independent audits of tax revenue and expenditures, with proceeds dedicated solely to tourism promotion purposes.

Ratifies and confirms all tax revenue collections made from July 1, 2018 until the bill's effective date, along with any city expenditures of those revenues.