What Is the 2% Lodging Tax? Ryan and Regina explain the November ballot measure

(Riverton, WY)- A 2% lodging tax will once again appear before Fremont County voters on the November ballot, and two members of the Support Fremont County Tourism PAC joined the conversation to explain what the measure is, who pays it and how tourism dollars are used locally.

Ryan and Regina discuss their roles with the PAC and emphasize that the proposed renewal applies to qualifying lodging stays, including hotels, motels, campgrounds, dude ranches and similar accommodations.

During the interview, Ryan and Regina say the majority of lodging tax collections come from visitors rather than Fremont County residents. They also compare lodging taxes in other destinations and discuss tourism’s role in supporting local businesses, jobs and visitor spending throughout Fremont County.

The conversation looks at the growth of lodging tax collections over the years and the economic impact of people traveling to the area for hotels, motels, outfitters, guides and other tourism-related experiences. Wyoming Department of Revenue figures show Fremont County’s overall lodging tax collections reached approximately $1.87 million in fiscal year 2025, including state and local portions of the tax.

Ryan and Regina also explain what happens to local lodging tax dollars after they are collected. The Wind River Visitors Council serves as Fremont County’s lodging tax board and uses lodging tax revenue to market Wind River Country and support tourism throughout the county and Wind River Indian Reservation.

Part of that funding returns to communities through Tourism Asset Dollars, which can support tourism-related events, improvements, attractions, signage and promotional efforts.