Louisiana House Bill HR83

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/29/19
• Passed: 4/30/19

Caption

Designates April 30, 2019, as Tourism Day at the state capitol

Impact

The resolution highlights that tourism-related activities support 236,000 jobs in the state, making it the fourth largest employment sector. The funding for tourism promotion is exclusively derived from a small percentage of sales tax, rather than state general funds, thereby showcasing the industry’s financial sustainability. By designating a specific day to celebrate tourism, the resolution aims to bolster awareness and appreciation for the economic benefits derived from this sector, which has an impressive return on investment of 40-to-1 for state funding.

Summary

House Resolution 83, introduced by Representative Henry, designates April 30, 2019, as Tourism Day at the state capitol of Louisiana. This resolution aims to recognize the significant contributions of the tourism sector to the state's economy. In 2017, Louisiana witnessed a record-breaking influx of over 47 million visitors, who collectively spent $17.5 billion within the state. Such expenditures generated substantial tax revenue, amounting to approximately $1.8 billion, emphasizing tourism's role as a crucial economic driver for Louisiana.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR83 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, as it aligns with the objectives of enhancing the state's image as a tourist destination. This resolution not only acknowledges the historical successes of the tourism sector but also fosters a sense of pride among stakeholders and advocates for continued support and promotion of tourism initiatives in Louisiana. The resolution serves as a formal recognition of the ongoing efforts by the Louisiana office of tourism.

Contention

While HR83 is largely celebratory in nature, discussions around the bill might highlight the broader issues of funding and support for tourism in the context of overall budget priorities. There could be potential contentions regarding how tourism initiatives are funded and the perceived allocation of resources towards this sector, especially amidst competing needs in other areas such as healthcare and education. However, the resolution itself maintains a unified front on the value of tourism in enhancing the state’s economy and creating jobs.