MS SB2511

Brings forward Section 57-123-7, Mississippi Code of 1972, which establishes a state program providing funds to destination marketing organizations for tourism marketing activities related to COVID-19 business disruption.

Allocates up to $9,427,557 to reimburse destination marketing organizations for 75% of their 2019 fiscal year marketing and advertising expenditures.

Allocates up to $20,572,443 to destination marketing organizations based on their proportion of total state tourism visitors according to the 2019 Visit Mississippi Visitors Profile Report, with a minimum allocation of $250,000 per organization.

Requires recipient organizations to certify that funds will be used only for marketing activities, comply with American Rescue Plan Act requirements, obligate all funds by December 31, 2024, and fully expend funds by December 31, 2026.

Requires destination marketing organizations to maintain expenditure records and provide semi-annual reports on expenditures and economic impacts to state finance, audit, and legislative leadership.