Sunshine Matters

I am pleased to share that today, during a press conference in Tallahassee, TaxWatch unveiled a new report on the importance of the tourism industry to Florida’s economy.  Unpacking the Benefits of Florida Tourism is the first component of a comprehensive report on Florida’s capacity to increase tourism and create jobs that is due out in late 2014. Continue reading »

The Sunshine State’s tourism industry was well represented at the 100th Annual Destination Marketing Association International Convention in Las Vegas this week, with a contingent of nearly 60 Florida attendees.  There were numerous members of the Florida delegation who received accolades during the convention for their continued excellence and engagement with DMAI, including: Continue reading »

I am pleased to announce that yesterday evening the U.S. House of Representatives resoundingly voted to reauthorize Brand USA by passing H.R. 4450, the Travel Promotion, Enhancement, and Modernization Act of 2014.  Clearing the House is a major step toward achieving renewal of this vital travel promotion program.

“This victory would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our travel community who engaged in a wide range of activities including hosting round table meetings and tours in local markets, lobbying on Capitol Hill, sending emails and letters, recording video testimonials and utilizing social media to urge elected federal representatives to support re-authorization of Brand USA,” said Roger Dow, President & CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.  “We also could not have won the House vote without the leadership of Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Peter Welch (D-VT), who introduced the Brand USA re-authorization measure in April and shepherded the bill through the chamber’s process.” Continue reading »

Happy New Year!  The Florida tourism industry kicks off the new fiscal year with a tremendous amount of momentum.  Record visitors, record spending, record hospitality industry jobs and record funding for VISIT FLORIDA.  I would like to thank Governor Scott and the entire Florida Legislature for their visionary leadership and support of the Florida tourism industry.  The tremendous growth in Florida tourism is directly tied to the fact that our elected leaders recognize the economic impact of tourism and our industry’s ability to create jobs for Floridians. Continue reading »

Today, Senate Bill 398 establishing a permanent home for the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame at the State Capitol was signed into law by Governor Rick Scott.  A huge thank you to the bill’s sponsor Sen. Detert, co-sponsor Sen. Margolis, along with the members of  the Senate Commerce & Tourism Committee, as well as Rep. La Rosa who put forward the companion bill in the House. Continue reading »