A provision in HB1867 could increase the tax Joplin hotel and motel owners collect and remit—but only if voters approve it.
Most restaurant and hospitality business owners in Joplin aren't yet aware that a state bill passed this year contains a provision that could directly affect hotel and motel operations in their city. HB1867 authorizes Joplin to raise a tax that hospitality businesses collect from guests—and the details matter for your planning.
HB1867 gives the city of Joplin authority to increase the transient guest tax on hotel and motel rooms. Currently, that tax stands at 4 percent per occupied room per night. The bill allows it to rise to as high as 6 percent—a 2-percentage-point increase—but only if Joplin voters approve it in a referendum.
This is a tax that hospitality businesses collect from guests, not a direct tax on the business itself. However, the collection and remittance obligations fall on hotel and motel operators. Any increase means additional administrative work: the tax must be stated separately on guest bills and remitted according to city requirements.
This provision applies specifically to hotels and motels operating in Joplin, a city with a population between 51,000 and 58,000 inhabitants located in more than one county. If you own or operate a lodging business in Joplin, this is relevant to you. If you operate in other Missouri cities, this does not apply.
HB1867 became effective upon enactment. However, the tax increase cannot happen automatically. Joplin voters must first approve it through a referendum. According to the fiscal note attached to the bill, revenue collection from any approved increase is estimated to begin in fiscal year 2028 at the earliest.
This means there is time before any change takes effect—but it also means the question could be put to voters sooner. Joplin business owners should monitor city announcements about any planned referendum.
If the tax increase is approved by voters, you'll need to:
• Update billing systems to reflect the new 6 percent rate
• Ensure the tax is itemized separately on guest invoices
• Adjust remittance procedures and accounting
• Communicate the change to staff and guests
The provision is found in Section 67.1000, subsection 5(3), on page 3 of HB1867. The language is technical, but the practical effect is straightforward: if voters approve it, the transient guest tax in Joplin rises by 2 percentage points, and your business handles the collection and remittance.
For hospitality businesses, understanding the timing and mechanics of tax changes is essential to budgeting and operations. While a referendum hasn't been scheduled yet, staying informed now allows you to prepare systems and staffing well in advance of any implementation.
Source: HB1867, Section 67.1000, subsection 5(3); Missouri legislative fiscal note.