A provision in HB1867 could increase the tax your hotel collects and remits to Joplin by 50 percent—if voters approve.
Most restaurant and hospitality business owners in Joplin aren't aware that a state bill now on the books could reshape their tax obligations. HB1867, signed into law, contains a provision that authorizes the City of Joplin to increase the transient guest tax on hotel and motel rooms—and it requires action from voters, not just lawmakers.
HB1867 authorizes Joplin to raise the transient guest tax (also called the hotel occupancy tax) from its current rate of 4 percent to as high as 6 percent per occupied room per night. This is a 2-percentage-point increase—a 50 percent jump in the tax rate.
If you operate a hotel or motel in Joplin, you already collect this tax from guests and remit it to the city. Under this provision, that collection and remittance obligation could increase, directly affecting your cash flow and accounting processes.
The provision applies specifically to hotel and motel operators in Joplin, a city with a population between 51,000 and 58,000 that spans more than one county. If you own or manage lodging properties in Joplin, this change could affect your business.
Restaurant owners who also operate hotel properties, or who have financial stakes in hospitality ventures, should pay particular attention.
The provision does not automatically raise the tax. Joplin voters must approve the increase through a ballot measure before any change takes effect. This means there will be a public vote—timing and details will be determined by the city.
According to the fiscal note attached to HB1867, the earliest revenue collection from this tax increase is estimated for fiscal year 2028. This gives you a window to plan, but also signals that the city is moving forward with this authorization.
The provision is codified in Section 67.1000, subsection 5(3), on Page 3 of HB1867. The bill became effective upon enactment.
If you operate a hotel or motel in Joplin, monitor local news and city announcements for the ballot measure. Understand how a 2-percentage-point increase would affect your margins, guest pricing, and competitive position. Consider whether you need to adjust your financial forecasts or operational budgets.
Keep in mind that while you collect and remit this tax, the revenue goes to support Joplin's tourism infrastructure and marketing—which can drive guest demand. The trade-off between the tax increase and potential tourism benefits is worth evaluating for your business.
For a detailed breakdown of how transient guest taxes work and what to expect if the measure passes, contact your local chamber of commerce or hospitality association for business-specific guidance.