The Wyoming House of Representatives finally passed a statewide 5 percent lodging tax and voted down an attempt to exempt Wyoming residents.

Casper Republican Chuck Gray was among those who tried to keep Wyoming residents from paying for the tax, which will go both towards state and local tourism efforts. But Afton Republican Evan Simpson says he doubts it will have much of an impact.

"At the risk of offending you, somewhere along the process some of our citizens needs to recognize that they need to contribute more towards the success of our state," said Simpson.

Lingle Republican Shelly Duncan added that visitors don't pay much attention to lodging taxes.

The bill also provides an additional two percent for communities to use for promoting local events.

Have a question about this story? Contact the reporter, Bob Beck, at btwo@uwyo.edu.