Bill bringing back 2 percent restaurant tax clears hurdle

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)- The Columbus 2% restaurant tax made a move forward in the state legislature.

House Bill 325 has been passed by the state House.

If passed, the legislation would give Columbus $400,000 for parks and recreation, along with tourism, entertainment and special events.

Lowndes County would receive $300,000 for the same purposes.

The Golden Triangle Development LINK would get $250,000.

While the Columbus-Lowndes Convention and Visitors Bureau would receive the money that is left over.

Members of the CVB board would not be required to have experience in the restaurant or tourism industry.

The 2 percent tax at Columbus restaurants would take effect immediately and be reconsidered in 2023.

The bill now moves on to the state Senate.