Major US city's latest tourist tax hike could affect hotel guests: Travel expert weighs in

A new Michigan bill has been passed to raise the tourist tax in an effort to grow the state's tourism marketing programs.

House Bill 6166 moves to raise taxes applied to hotel/motel and bed and breakfasts (with at least 35 rooms) on guest bills. 

Beginning Jan. 1, through Dec. 31, 2030, the tax will jump from 2% to 3.5% with a planned increase to 4% on Jan. 1, 2031.

Carter also said it's important to note that this is an "opt in" opportunity for hotels. 

"To go up 1% when you've been at 2% for the last 20, 30 years, I don't think is unreasonable when you look at everything that has taken place," said Carter.

He added, "it's not going toward anything other than promoting the [Detroit] area... and all of the things that we have to offer and that takes money to advertise."

"We're never going to make everybody happy. But I think that 1% and opt in is also the thing. If you don't want to join, you don't have to. It's not mandatory," Carter shared.

"I lived in Michigan for 27 years and would regularly travel to various beautiful destinations around the state," said Bork.

She added, "By increasing the tourism tax, you are basically charging people who already live there to visit their own state."