Bill to close airport biz exemptions

The Mississippi Legislature, which has passed a bill that would close tax exemptions loopholes for industries located at state-based airports, is heading to Gov. Phil Bryant's desk after passing both chambers. Senate Bill 2802, which passed unanimously in the Senate - and 113-4 in the House - amends a law that the Mississippi Supreme Court said last fall allows for exemptions for any businesses located on airport property. The bill is due to arrive on the governor’s desk March 6. The measure is particularly important for Lowndes County, where several major industries are located on the Golden Triangle Regional Airport's property. The exemption has cost the Lowndes about $160,000 in tax revenue this fiscal year, according to County Tax Assessor Greg Andrews, and the county school district $800,000. (Source: Columbus Dispatch 03/01/19)