MS SB2838

Creates the Mississippi Department of Tourism as a new state agency responsible for promotion, development, and support services for the state's tourism industry, effective July 1, 2020.

Establishes a State Board of Tourism with seven members (four appointed by the Governor, three by the Lieutenant Governor) with Senate approval, and authorizes the board to appoint an Executive Director of the Department of Tourism.

Transfers all employees, equipment, and inventory from the Mississippi Development Authority's Tourism Division to the new Department of Tourism on July 1, 2020.

Diverts a portion of sales tax revenue from restaurants and hotels to the Department of Tourism Advertising Fund: 1% from August 2019–July 2020, 2% from August 2020–July 2021, and 3% thereafter.

Repeals six sections of existing code that granted tourism powers and duties to the Mississippi Development Authority, consolidating all state tourism functions under the new Department of Tourism.