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Bill

Bill

A 8490

Authorizes occupancy taxes in the city of Utica and the city of Rome

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon

Bill A 8490 allows Utica and Rome to impose occupancy taxes on short-term rentals, boosting local revenue for tourism and community services, benefiting residents and visitors.

SIGNED CHAP.461
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 8490

Summary of Bill A 8490

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 8490
  • Title: Authorizes occupancy taxes in the city of Utica and the city of Rome
  • Status: Signed into law as Chapter 461
  • Introduced: May 19, 2025
  • Classification: Legislative Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 8490 aims to authorize the implementation of occupancy taxes in the cities of Utica and Rome, New York. The primary intent of this legislation is to provide local governments with a new revenue stream that can be utilized for various public services and infrastructure improvements, particularly those related to tourism and hospitality.

Key Provisions

  • Occupancy Tax Authorization: The bill allows the cities of Utica and Rome to impose a tax on the rental of hotel rooms and other short-term accommodations.
  • Tax Rate: The specific rate of the occupancy tax is not detailed in the provided information, but it is typically set by local authorities within the framework established by the state.
  • Use of Revenue: Funds generated from the occupancy tax are intended to support local tourism initiatives, infrastructure projects, and other community services that benefit from increased visitor spending.

Affected Parties

  • Local Governments: The cities of Utica and Rome will gain the authority to levy this tax, potentially increasing their financial resources.
  • Tourism and Hospitality Sector: Hotels, motels, and other short-term rental businesses in these cities will be directly impacted, as they will need to collect the occupancy tax from guests.
  • Residents and Visitors: Local residents may benefit from improved public services funded by the tax revenue, while visitors will incur the additional cost of the occupancy tax when staying in these cities.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced on May 19, 2025, and referred to the Ways and Means Committee.
  • Assembly and Senate Actions: The bill passed through both the Assembly and Senate, with significant actions including:
    • June 9, 2025: Passed in the Assembly and delivered to the Senate.
    • June 12, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the Assembly.
  • Governor's Approval: The bill was delivered to the Governor on October 9, 2025, and was signed into law on October 16, 2025, becoming Chapter 461.

Related Legislation

  • S 8155: This bill serves as a companion to A 8490, likely addressing similar provisions or objectives regarding occupancy taxes.

Conclusion

Bill A 8490 represents a significant step for the cities of Utica and Rome in enhancing their financial capabilities through the authorization of occupancy taxes. By enabling local governments to generate additional revenue, the bill aims to support tourism and improve community services, ultimately benefiting both residents and visitors.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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