Travel & Tourism Industry Drives State Economies

WASHINGTON, D.C.—While the travel and tourism industry added new jobs for the first time since 9/11, the industry still struggles to meet pre-2000 numbers, according to a new study by the United States Chamber of Commerce.

"Without a strong travel and tourism industry, we will not have a strong economy," said David Hirschmann, executive vice president of the National Chamber Foundation. "While we're encouraged that the industry appears to be making progress, it has a long way to go to restore its financial health. Necessary airport security procedures still take too long, legitimate foreign visitors face unacceptable visa delays, and our outdated air traffic control system is generating needless travel backups. All of these issues discourage travel and tourism and have a negative impact on the overall economy."

According to the Impact of Travel and Tourism on the U.S. and State Economies, published by the U.S. Chamber and Travel Industry Association of America, the industry employed 7.3 million people, paid out $163 billion in wages, and generated $100 billion in tax revenue for local, state, and federal governments in 2004. The study also contains information on travel and tourism employment, spending, and taxes for each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

"This industry has a huge impact on states and we must make sure that its growing needs are recognized as a national priority," said Hirschmann.

The report is part of a major travel and tourism campaign by the Chamber to educate members of Congress, federal and state officials, and the general public about the impact the industry has on state and local communities.

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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A full version of the study is available online. http://www.supporttravel.com/portal/travel/report/