The bill amends Section 42-63.1-3 of the General Laws concerning the distribution of hotel tax proceeds in Rhode Island. It removes the requirement that five percent (5%) of the hotel tax generated from regional tourism districts be allocated to the Greater Providence-Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau. Instead, it specifies that five percent (5%) of the hotel tax will be added to the existing tax paid to the Rhode Island commerce corporation. The distribution percentages for the Rhode Island commerce corporation are adjusted, with it receiving thirty percent (30%), thirty-three percent (33%), and seventy-five percent (75%) of the tax proceeds, depending on the specific provisions outlined in the bill.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision stating that for returns and tax payments received on or after July 1, 2026, five percent (5%) of the taxes generated in the Aquidneck Island district, statewide district, Block Island district, and South County district shall be allocated to the Rhode Island commerce corporation for tourism development, public art, and events throughout the participating regions. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2814: 42-63.1-3