BILL NUMBER: S7321
SPONSOR: BAILEY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the tax law, in relation to authorizing the city of
Mount Vernon to impose a hotel and motel tax; and providing for the
repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To impose a hotel and motel tax rate to benefit the city by providing
additional revenues.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section I. Adds a new section 1202-kk to the tax law granting the city
of Mount Vernon the authority to impose a tax for any hotels, motels,
tourist homes, motel courts, bed and breakfast establishments, short-
term rentals, vacation rentals, Airbnb's clubs or similar facilities.
Section 2. Effective Date
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The proposed hotel occupancy tax is expected to generate additional
revenue for the City of Mount Vernon. These funds will be strategically
reinvested in critical infrastructure improvements, capital projects,
and economic development initiatives. Moreover, this tax establishes a
fair mechanism by ensuring that visitors and tourists, who benefit from
and place increased demands on essential city services such as public
safety, sanitation, and code enforcement, contribute equitably to their
upkeep. Aligning with regional practices observed in neighboring munici-
palities, this legislation promotes consistency and fiscal responsibil-
ity across the region.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the state.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately, with provisions concerning the act's expiration.