HB 5498

Amends the Counties Code. Provides that, beginning January 1, 2027, every county with a population over 600,000 shall create a tourism and convention bureau. Provides that a tourism and convention bureau shall have the same powers and duties as a tourism and convention bureau created under the Tourism Preservation and Sustainability District Act, except that the tourism and convention bureau shall immediately be eligible for State tourism dollars and grant funding. Provides that the governing body of the tourism and convention bureau shall consist of a board of 25 members. Provides that the county board shall appoint the members of the board. Provides that the members of the board of the tourism and convention bureau shall elect the leader of the board of the tourism and convention bureau by simple majority. Effective immediately.