WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Competitiveness, Innovation, and Export Promotion announces a hearing titled Tourism in America: Moving Our Economy Forward.

The hearing will focus primarily on the travel industry’s impact on the U.S. economy.  At a time when unemployment remains stubbornly high, increased overseas visitation presents one opportunity to improve the country’s economic outlook.  Federal agencies, including the Department of Commerce and the State Department, are working closely with Brand USA, Inc. (formerly known as Corporation for Travel Promotion) to attract and welcome increased international visitors.  

The first panel of the hearing will discuss the steps the federal government is taking to implement the Travel Promotion Act. The second panel will hear from the private sector on the importance of travel and tourism to the U.S. economy and the recent unveiling of Brand USA, Inc. to market America.  Witnesses on this panel will discuss how international travel to the U.S. impacts their businesses and the ways in which the government and private sector can partner to increase foreign visitation.

Please note the hearing will also be webcast live via the Senate Commerce Committee website.  Refresh the Commerce Committee homepage 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to view the webcast.

Individuals with disabilities who require an auxiliary aid or service, including closed captioning service for webcast hearings, should contact Collenne Wider at 202-224-5511 at least three business days in advance of the hearing date.