Panel unanimously backs HB 272 to require LFA and auditor to reach consensus on tourism tax reports

Representative Bollander described HB 272 as a technical fix to reconcile two prior measures that placed the Legislative Fiscal Analyst (LFA) and the state auditor in different positions in the reporting and review sequence. "HB 272 fixes that," the sponsor said, explaining it requires LFA and the state auditor to reach consensus on funds reported by counties for tourism taxes.

Committee members confirmed the bill affects both the transient room tax (TRT) and TRCC reporting and asked whether the sponsor had consulted with both offices; sponsor said LFA had been consulted but the auditor's office had not yet provided a formal position. There was no public opposition during the hearing.

Representative Thurston moved to favorably recommend HB 272; the committee voted unanimously to do so and moved the bill to the consent calendar for floor consideration.