U.S. Travel Joins Congressman Joe Morelle for “Travel Works” Power Hour in Rochester, NY

The U.S. Travel Association joined Congressman Joe Morelle and Visit Rochester, along with local business leaders for a “Travel Works for America” Power Hour at Rohrbach Railroad Street Beer Hall and Brewery on August 21. The discussion focused on opportunities to support the travel industry now and in the future, and national and local priorities for the industry.
 

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"We appreciate Congressman Morelle and our local partners for helping spotlight the important role travel plays in supporting jobs and driving economic growth in Rochester and across New York," said Andrew Newhart, Senior Director of Government Relations at U.S. Travel. "Together, we can strengthen the travel economy, support local businesses and expand opportunities for workers and communities nationwide."

“Rochester and the entire Finger Lakes Region has so much to offer, and our vibrant travel and tourism industry plays an important role in supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening our economy,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “I’m grateful to U.S. Travel, Visit Rochester, and all our local tourism leaders for sharing their perspectives and helping us identify ways we can continue making our region an even better place to live, work, and visit. I look forward to continuing our work together to support this critical industry and help our entire community thrive.”  

“We’re grateful to Congressman Morelle for taking the time to hear from our partners about the issues affecting the tourism and hospitality industry,” said Don Jeffries, President & CEO of Visit Rochester. “Rochester and the Finger Lakes is one of the premier tourism destinations in the country, and with continued public-private collaboration and partnership, the region and industry are poised for further growth and impact.”

In New York, the travel industry generates $109 billion in travel spending and supports 485,600 jobs, with Monroe County accounting for $1.5 billion in visitor spending alone.  Nationally, travel produces $3 trillion in economic output and supports 15 million U.S. workers. Travel is a leading driver of growth, stability and prosperity that touches every corner of America.

The Power Hour agenda included critical topics to the travel industry, such as: the economic impact of travel; decreased visitation from Canada; immigration concerns including the visa integrity fee and changes to the ESTA applications; restoring funding for Brand USA; and more local and national issues.