MS HB1356

Extends the repeal date of Chapter 926, Local and Private Laws of 2019, from July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2027, allowing the City of Lexington to continue levying a restaurant tax.

Authorizes the City of Lexington governing authorities to levy a tax of up to 2% on the gross proceeds of sales from restaurants within city limits for tourism and parks and recreation funding.

Requires a public election with 60% voter approval before the tax can be imposed, with notice published for at least three consecutive weeks prior to the election.

Mandates that tax revenue be collected by the Department of Revenue using the same procedures as state sales taxes and deposited into a separate city fund dedicated solely to tourism and parks and recreation purposes.

Requires annual independent certified public accountant audits of tax revenue receipts and expenditures, with audit expenses paid from collected tax proceeds.