Senate Bill 1306, also known as House Bill 1321, amends the Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance the structure and responsibilities of the Department of Tourist Development. The bill establishes a marketing division within the department, headed by a commissioner-appointed individual, who will oversee various promotional activities aimed at boosting tourism in Tennessee. The responsibilities of this division include promoting new investments in the tourism industry, providing services to existing enterprises, marketing Tennessee attractions in other states, and distributing informational publications.

Additionally, the bill creates a welcome centers division under the Department of Tourist Development, which will also be directed by a commissioner-appointed head. This division is tasked with overseeing the state's welcome centers, promoting Tennessee's heritage and attractions, training staff, maintaining facilities, and ensuring a positive visitor experience. The bill also stipulates that funding for the welcome centers will be sourced from highway user taxes allocated to the highway fund, ensuring adequate financial support for their operation and maintenance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-3-2204(a)(1)(A), 4-3-2204, 4-3-2204(a)(1)(B), 4-3-2204(b), 4-3-2209