She has said that she will veto the bill because it calls for raising hotel room taxes in Chicopee and West Springfield without local referenda. Melconian said that at least two thirds of members in both legislative branches are ready to vote to override a Swift veto. Sen. Brian P. Lees, R-East Longmeadow, was excited by the bill's expected quick move through the Senate. The Senate has always promised to move the bill, and we have. The bill also creates a special finance district around the Civic Center in order to gain tourism-related taxes.
Lawmakers are hopeful that the hotel taxes can be increased in time for the busy summer season.
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