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PIERRE, S.D. (AP) South Dakota's tourism tax goes up next month.

The 2009 Legislature passed a measure raising the tax from 1 percent to 1.5 percent, effective July 1.

Lawmakers raised the rate to help fund arts programs and add revenue to the state general fund. The increase is expected to raise about $2.6 million and is to remain in effect for two years.

Some of the money goes to the South Dakota Arts Council and the state's Archaeological Research Center.

The tax applies year-round to the gross receipts of hotels and lodging establishments, campgrounds, motor vehicle and recreational equipment rentals, recreational services, spectator events and visitor attractions.

The tax also applies to the gross receipts of visitor-intensive businesses from June through September.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-13-09 0937CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list