MS HB1523

Authorizes the City of Saltillo, Mississippi to levy a tax of up to 2% on gross proceeds from hotel/motel room rentals and restaurant sales to fund tourism and parks and recreation programs

Requires a public election where at least 60% of voters must approve the tax before it can be implemented, with notice published for three consecutive weeks prior to the election

Hotels and motels are defined as establishments with six or more guest rooms; restaurants include all places selling prepared food for on-site or off-site consumption, excluding schools, hospitals, and nursing homes

The Mississippi Department of Revenue will collect the tax and retain 3% for administrative costs, remitting the remainder to the city by the 15th of each month

Tax proceeds must be kept separate from general fund revenues and dedicated solely to tourism and parks/recreation purposes, with mandatory annual audits by an independent CPA; the act expires July 1, 2026