Visit America Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in favor of my legislation to strengthen the U.S. travel and tourism industry at a time when it is needed most.

Las Vegas welcomes nearly 43 million visitors annually from around the world. My Visit America Act will ensure tourism is at the table when we consider national economic policy.

Currently, the United States is the only member of the G20 that does not have a Cabinet-level or equivalent position focused on tourism.

My bill creates an Assistant Secretary position at the Department of Commerce specifically charged with strengthening the United States travel and tourism industry. This department will work with other agencies to coordinate a comprehensive tourism strategy and help position cities like Las Vegas to serve as hosts for large meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.

Having a position at the Department of Commerce to oversee travel and tourism will not only help insulate Southern Nevada's regional economy from future economic shocks but also better position the U.S. travel economy in the age of global competitiveness.

I look forward to working with the new Assistant Secretary to bolster our hospitality industry and let the world know the U.S. is a great place to visit, to work, and to play.

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