SENATE RESOLUTION 21
(By Senator Smith (Mr. President)
[Introduced March 11, 2025]
Designating March 12, 2025, as West Virginia Tourism Day at the Legislature.
Whereas, Tourism in West Virginia highlights the natural beauty of the state and what it has to offer; and
Whereas, The Mountain State is home to four beautiful seasons that each provide unique opportunities to experience West Virginia; and
Whereas, West Virginia’s natural paradise is home to an array of world-class tourism establishments that promote culture, art, and history; and
Whereas, West Virginia, with its rugged terrain encompassed entirely by lush Appalachian Mountains, is home to some of the best trails, lakes, mountain overlooks, and rivers, which are visited each year by millions; and
Whereas, The importance of tourism to West Virginians can be seen in small, rural towns and metropolitan areas where tourism-related businesses welcome visitors each year, helping their local economies flourish; and
Whereas, The West Virginia State Legislature has consistently, enthusiastically, and generously championed tourism statewide and the industry is grateful for its continued support; and
Whereas, Tourism industry partners, students, and educators from across the state have gathered in the State’s Capitol today to recognize the occasion and highlight the growing statewide and regional contributions of travel and tourism; and
Whereas, Tourism industry partners located in all nine travel regions help to showcase the best version of Almost Heaven, generating over $8.7 billion, the highest ever recorded economic impact for tourism in West Virginia last year; and
Whereas, Through their hard work and legendary hospitality, West Virginia’s tourism businesses contribute $2 billion in annual income and support 60,000 jobs for hardworking West Virginians; and
Whereas, Travelers spend $17 million on average per day in the state; and
Whereas, The industry generates $1 billion in tax revenue annually, and contributes $835 per West Virginia household in state and local tax revenues to support maintaining government services; and
Whereas, West Virginia’s tourism industry continues to grow each year, making the state’s citizens proud to call this majestic destination their home; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate:
That the Senate hereby designates March 12, 2025, as West Virginia Tourism Day at the Legislature; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Senate encourages all citizens to explore West Virginia’s scenic beauty and cultural experiences; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism.