BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

                                                                                                                                           H.B. 1820

                                                                                                                                      By: Hamilton

                                                                                                     Local Government Ways & Means

                                                                                                       Committee Report (Unamended)

 

 

 

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

 

This bill would allow for Orange County to collect a hotel occupancy tax not to exceed two percent.  Orange County would be using these funds collected under this provision to develop a multipurpose  facility to attract events such as livestock shows, rodeos, and other agricultural events.  Orange County is a great location for hunting, fishing, bird watching, and other nature enthusiasts, with this money the county could utilize these funds to sponsor events that could attract more tourists to stay longer than just a day. 

 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

 

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution. 

 

ANALYSIS

 

Section 352.002 (a) is amended to read:  (22) a county that borders or contains a portion of the Neches River, the Sabine River and Sabine Lake.  This is the county of Orange.

 

Section 2. Section 352.003 of the tax code, is amended by adding Subsection (h) the county authorized tax will not exceed two percent of the price paid for a room in a hotel. 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE

 

September 1, 2007.