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DARCI LOURIGAN

CORRESPONDENT TO THE DAILY NEWS 

Washington Parish Tourism Commission will hold a vote May 16 on a new lodging tax that would begin collecting a 3% lodging tax on hotel, motel and campground stays starting July 1, 2025, in an effort to boost tourism funding, parish officials announced this week.

The new tax is authorized under Louisiana Revised Statute 33:4574.1.1, which allows parishes and municipalities to create tourism commissions and levy taxes to support tourism-related activities. Revenue from the tax must be used exclusively for promoting tourism, including advertising, event support and attraction improvements.

Local residents are unlikely to be affected by the tax, which applies only to overnight stays at commercial lodging establishments. For example, a $100 room would cost $103 with the new tax.

Supporters of the tax say it will provide much-needed funding for tourism development without burdening residents. They argue that increased advertising and event promotion can attract more visitors, benefiting hotels, restaurants, shops and other local businesses.

However, some local business owners have expressed concerns about the impact of the added cost on potential guests, especially if neighboring parishes do not impose similar taxes.

Under the proposal, the parish tourism commission would oversee how the funds are used and ensure they comply with state law. Officials say transparency and careful management of the new revenue will be key to building trust with the community and maximizing the tax’s benefits.