Relating to: tourism promotion improvement districts. (FE)

SB 998 establishes a framework for creating "tourism promotion improvement districts" where hotels and motels (defined as "businesses" in the bill) can form private associations to fund tourism marketing and infrastructure improvements. To create a district, at least 50% of hotel/motel room owners must petition the local government, and the district’s operating plan must detail boundaries, annual costs, financing sources (including potential bonds), and assessment methods for businesses. Assessments, limited to 5 years for new districts (or 10 for renewals), can fund marketing, events, or infrastructure designed to boost visitor stays, with hosting platforms allowed to collect assessments at no more than a 5% fee. The bill requires public hearings and local government approval before implementation, directly affecting participating hospitality businesses through mandatory funding contributions.