Cochran Cosponsored Measure to Increase Mississippi’s Growing Tourism Sector
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate today passed legislation cosponsored by U.S.
Senator Thad Cochran that would revitalize federal efforts to attract more
foreign tourists to the United States and counter the steep decline in
international travel following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The Tourism Promotion Act (S.1023) was passed 79-19. It is a bipartisan
measure establishing a nonprofit Corporation for Travel Promotion to
implement a nationally-coordinated travel promotion program. The mission to
market the United States to international tourists is aimed at reversing the
decline in foreign travel to the United States since 2001.
“I cosponsored this legislation because it offers the possibility of helping
expand Mississippi’s growing tourism industry,” Cochran said. “By
broadening the nation’s appeal abroad, this measure will give Mississippi an
opportunity to attract more foreign visitors. Our rich culture, natural
attractions and historic sites are a source of pride for our state and they
should be shared with more people.”
The measure also establishes an Office of Travel Promotion within the
Department of Commerce to coordinate with the federal departments of State
and Homeland Security to improve the U.S. visa and entry process for foreign
visitors, while maintaining border security. The Congressional Budget
Office has determined S.1023 will help reduce the federal deficit by almost
$500 million over 10 years.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, the 17 percent decline in the
United States’ international travel market share has resulted in the loss of
200,000 jobs and nearly $100 billion in visitor spending. Tourism industry
sources have also estimated that the current economic downturn could result
in the loss of 250,000 travel-related jobs in 2009.
Cochran Presser
9/11/9
