Revise department of commerce lodging facility use tax distribution and allowable state funded tourism promotion laws

Montana bill LC 461 revises how lodging facility use tax revenue is distributed, directly affecting the Department of Commerce, regional tourism groups, and state agencies. The bill requires 60.2% of the tax revenue (after a 4% deduction for state agency lodging costs) to fund tourism programs through the Department of Commerce, with specific allocations: 28.6% for tourism media and promotions, 14.3% for rural and tribal tourism, 15.3% for tourism grants, and smaller portions for historical sites, parks, and emergency lodging. It also mandates that cities or regions receiving funds must submit approved marketing plans, or funds redirect to regional tourism corporations. The bill repeals outdated language (Section 90-1-122, MCA) and adds reporting requirements for heritage preservation funds.