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Senate committee hears proposal for $5-per-day rental-car fee; industry split on who would pay
Summary
The Senate Finance Committee held a hearing on SB 522, a proposal to add a $5-per-day rental-car fee with at least 20% of receipts earmarked for tourism marketing (subject to appropriations). Sponsors and tourism groups said the fee could boost marketing; rental-car firms warned it would fall on Georgia residents and state agencies. The item was a hearing only; members requested fiscal follow-up.
Senate sponsor Drew Echols introduced Senate Bill 522 and told the Finance Committee the proposal would add a $5-per-day fee to rental cars, exempting repairs, maintenance and replacement rentals, with at least 20% of revenue designated for tourism marketing subject to future appropriations. "This bill ... is just a step in the right direction," Echols said, noting a fiscal estimate ranging from about $59 million to $121 million annually.
Supporters from the tourism industry said targeted marketing could increase visitation and deliver strong returns. "If you spend, you receive something in return," said Chris Hardman, president of the Georgia Hotel and Lodging Association, endorsing the measure and its…
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