HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at boosting the state’s visibility as a tourist destination by redirecting tax revenue from short-term rentals into the state’s tourism fund.
Sen. Carolyn Comitta and Rep. Joe Ciresi announced companion bills, S.B. 994 and H.B. 1852, that would shift state hotel occupancy tax revenue collected from booking agents on behalf of unlicensed accommodations, such as Airbnb and other homestays, from the General Fund to the Tourism Promotion Fund.
“Increasing Pennsylvania’s tourism outreach is about more than just attracting visitors – it will help uplift our local economy, support our small businesses, and showcase the unique character of communities across the commonwealth,” Comitta said.
Ciresi called the measure a “win-win for Pennsylvania,” pointing to the tourism industry’s role in creating jobs and driving local economies. “When Pennsylvania’s tourism thrives, so does every aspect of life in the commonwealth, from corner to corner,” he said. He added that the upcoming America250 celebrations present a timely opportunity to expand tourism efforts.
According to the Pennsylvania Tourism Office, the state hosted 192.4 million visitors in 2022, generating $76.7 billion in economic impact, supporting nearly 487,000 jobs, and contributing $4.7 billion in state and local taxes.
Under the proposal, the Department of Community and Economic Development would use redirected revenue to market Pennsylvania to out-of-state travelers. Funds would also support the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts to expand grants for cultural and historical attractions.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.