New York Assembly Bill A08347

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/13/25
• Refer: 5/13/25
• Report Pass: 6/11/25
• Refer: 6/11/25
• Report Pass: 6/12/25

Caption

Authorizes the town of Highlands, Orange county, to impose a hotel and motel tax of up to five percent.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation will allow the town of Highlands to diversify its revenue streams, particularly from the tourism sector, as the town may capitalize on its accommodations that cater to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. The collected revenue from this tax will be deposited into the town's treasury and allocated for lawful purposes as deemed necessary by the local government. This financial boost could help fund public services, address local infrastructure needs, or support community initiatives, thus enhancing the overall quality of life in the town.

Summary

Bill A08347 seeks to authorize the town of Highlands in Orange County, New York, to impose a hotel and motel tax of up to five percent on individuals renting rooms for lodging. This legislative initiative is aimed at increasing local revenue that can be utilized for various municipal purposes. The bill outlines that this tax will apply to all accommodations that provide overnight lodging, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and tourist facilities. However, residents who occupy these units for an extended period of at least ninety consecutive days will not be subject to this tax, thus making provisions for long-term residents.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding this bill is the potential impact of imposing such a tax on visitors and local businesses. Stakeholders may express concerns that the additional tax burden could deter tourists from choosing Highlands as a destination, consequently affecting local businesses reliant on tourism. The debate may also raise questions about the effectiveness of additional taxes in achieving the intended financial benefits without adverse effects on the local economy. Discussions might revolve around balancing the need for revenue generation with the necessity of fostering a welcoming environment for visitors.