by Donald Wood
Last updated: 9:00 AM ET, Thu March 21, 2024
The U.S. Travel Association organized delegates from all 50
states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia for its annual legislative
fly-in, Destination Capitol Hill.
In total, the delegates representing the U.S.
Travel Association held over 300 meetings with top policymakers to
highlight issues and topics related to the travel industry, with the long-term goal
of increasing global competitiveness, driving economic growth, and creating jobs.
Advocates on Capitol Hill shared four key points, including lowering
visitor visa wait times, reducing customs wait times, funding the office of the
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Travel and Tourism, and advancing the Federal
Aviation Administration reauthorization bill.
“This year’s Destination Capitol Hill is all about setting
the groundwork for a more globally competitive future for travel,” U.S. Travel
Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman said. “The annual event is a
significant opportunity to unite the travel industry—from all 50 states—to
speak with lawmakers on issues that are vital to our long-term success and
growth.”
Some of the data delegates presented in Washington include travel
accounting for $1.3 trillion in direct
spending in 2023, the industry supporting more than 15 million American
workers last year, and travel spending generating nearly $165 billion in total
tax revenue.
During the fly-in event, U.S. Travel awarded Chairman Sam
Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA)—both serving on the U.S.
House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure—with the association’s
Legislator of the Year award.
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