The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to revise the structure and operations of the Cullman County Tourism Bureau. Key changes include the inclusion of representatives from the agri-tourism and faith-based tourism sectors in the Bureau's composition, as well as adjustments to the terms of service for appointees. The requirement for the Cullman County Treasurer to maintain a separate bank account for the Tourism Bureau has been eliminated. Furthermore, the bill introduces a five percent privilege or license tax on businesses renting accommodations to transients, while removing previous provisions related to the retirement of specific debts tied to the Exit 305 Interchange and the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce building.

Additionally, the distribution of tax proceeds is modified, allocating two-fifths to the Cullman County Chamber of Commerce for operational expenses and three-fifths to the Cullman County Tourism Bureau for tourism promotion and operational costs. The bill is designed to enhance clarity and effectiveness in the law by inserting specific guidelines for compliance and enforcement, while deleting ambiguous language that has caused confusion. With bipartisan support, the bill aims to modernize the legal framework and ensure it effectively meets community needs, taking effect immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45-22-225
Enrolled: 45-22-225