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Supporting National Tourism Week

Date: June 6, 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Arts, Entertainment, and History


SUPPORTING NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK -- (House of Representatives - June 06, 2006)

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Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I rise in support of H. Res. 729, offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Foley). I am also a cosponsor of this resolution, and cosponsor of it for a good reason. The $1.3 trillion industry in travel and tourism is one that both Florida and California enjoy, and people from all over the world also enjoy it. The United States receives nearly 50 million international visitors, spending over $100 billion a year while touring within our country.

In fact, the United States is the number one tourist destination in the world. The Travel Industry Association says if not for the taxes generated by the travel and tourism, every household in America would pay over $900 more in taxes each year to make up for the shortfall, much of that coming from foreign visitors.

In addition, travel and tourism generate $100 billion in tax revenue for local, State and Federal governments. For this reason, it is important that we encourage and recognize the travel industry for its dedication to not only the accommodation of our vacation needs, but also in providing much-needed jobs and revenue for our country each year. I urge all Members to come together to support the vitally important travel and tourism industry by adopting H. Res. 729.

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Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from Illinois is quite right. On Monday I left several tourist dollars on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Building at that lovely, beautiful restaurant. Chicago is in fact a major tourist destination, and I have been to more trade shows than I care to, well, I care to remember them all. They were all quite good. Chicago hosts some wonderful McCormick-based facilities, and has some of the finest hotels. I have not stayed in all of the finest hotels, but you have some of the finest hotels.

Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of this resolution to thank the travel and tourism industry for what they contribute to our economy.

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