Bill > HB1523

This bill amends Howard County's existing law regarding room rental taxes by increasing the maximum allowable tax rate on room rentals for transient sleeping accommodations from 7% to 8%. The bill introduces a new provision that requires the county to distribute any revenue generated from the tax rate between 7% and 8% exclusively to the Howard County Tourism Council. Previously, revenue from taxes between 5% and 7% was split, with two-thirds going to the Tourism Council and one-third to the Howard County Economic Development Authority. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving local authorities time to adjust their tax collection and distribution processes. This change is designed to potentially boost tourism funding by allocating an additional portion of room rental tax revenues directly to the county's tourism promotion efforts.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1523?ys=2025RS