AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT

HB 6001 redirects the distribution of hotel tax revenue in Rhode Island, shifting a larger share to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation for tourism promotion. For tax payments received after December 31, 2015, 75% of the tax generated by hotels in the statewide district (covering most of the state) must now go directly to the Commerce Corporation, up from previous allocations. The bill requires the Commerce Corporation to spend at least the full amount it receives annually on promoting Rhode Island as a tourism destination. This change primarily affects hotels statewide, altering how local tourism districts, cities, and the Commerce Corporation receive funding from hotel taxes.