The Wyoming House of Representatives has started debate on a bill that would impose a statewide five percent tourism tax.
Local governments would be given an additional two percent. Taxes would mainly be placed on lodging, such as hotels and campgrounds. It's expected to generate $20 million for the state. Jackson Democrat Andy Schwartz said the time to pass such a tax is now.
"Because our number one industry, extraction, is seeing threats to their revenue stream and its time for our number two industry to step up and contribute to our state coffers," said Schwartz.
Supporter's said that 85 percent of the taxes will be paid by out-of-staters, but opponents complain that it will negatively impact Wyoming residents. The bill will be debated two more times.
Have a question about this story? Contact the reporter, Bob Beck, at btwo@uwyo.edu.