The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, Chapter 26, to Title 63 of the Idaho Code, titled the "County Property Tax Relief Act." This legislation aims to establish a county transient room tax, which can be approved by county residents and implemented by the Board of County Commissioners. The tax, not exceeding three percent of the sales price of transient room rentals, is intended to alleviate the tax burden on residential property owners by shifting some of the costs associated with increased county services due to tourism and short-term rentals onto visitors. The bill outlines the definitions of key terms, the authority for counties to adopt the tax, and the specific uses of the tax revenue, which must include at least fifty percent allocated for property tax relief.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 63-1804 of the Idaho Code to clarify the duties of short-term rental marketplaces and property owners regarding tax collection and compliance. It specifies that if a short-term rental is offered directly to an occupant without a marketplace, the owner must adhere to the same tax requirements. The bill also includes provisions for the collection and administration of the transient room tax by the state tax commission, ensuring that revenues are appropriately distributed to support county services. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 63-1804