MS HB1118

Creates the Mississippi Department of Tourism as a standalone state agency, transferring all powers, duties, and personnel from the Mississippi Development Authority's Tourism Division effective July 1, 2026

Requires the Governor to appoint an Executive Director with Senate confirmation who will serve at the Governor's pleasure and oversee tourism promotion, marketing, and development across the state's five designated regions (Hills, Delta, Capital/River, Pines, and Coastal)

Establishes the Mississippi Tourism Association Marketing Advisory Board composed of Mississippi Tourism Association members plus appointees from the Governor (3), Lieutenant Governor (1), and Speaker of the House (1) to advise on marketing initiatives

Authorizes the department to sell advertising through its website and marketing outlets, with revenues deposited into a newly created Mississippi Department of Tourism Advertising Fund that does not lapse at fiscal year end

Amends sales tax distribution provisions to redirect a portion of restaurant and hotel tax revenues from the Mississippi Development Authority Tourism Fund to the new Department of Tourism Advertising Fund, and repeals six existing code sections governing MDA's tourism functions