After two previously-unsuccessful attempts, Representave Roy Burrell's bill to allow an increase in the Shreveport/Bossier hotel/motel occupancy tax has cleared the legislature.

But it's not quite the way it was originally.  He had proposed a 2-1/2 percent increase but the senate dropped that to an even 2-percent and he agreed to the change.

Once signed by the governor, the increase will still require voter approval before it can take effect.  Proceeds from the tax increase, if approved, would go to support the Independence Bowl Foundation, the Ark-La-Tex Regional Air Service Alliance, and the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission.

Burrell says the bill passed this time because of the unified support of the local legislative delegation, local governments, and the organizations that will benefit from the tax.

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