WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Mark Begich (D-AK), Harry Reid (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Dean Heller (R-NV), and Tim Scott (R-SC),  introduced a resolution yesterday recognizing National Travel and Tourism Week to emphasize the importance of the travel and tourism sector for the economies of communities throughout the nation.

“Tourism is a powerful engine for job creation in Virginia and in local communities across the country,” Sen. Warner said.  “I’ve always been a strong advocate for Virginia’s tourism industry and all that our Commonwealth has to offer – from abundant outdoor recreation opportunities to rich cultural and heritage attractions.   I’m proud to join my colleagues in recognizing National Travel and Tourism Week and the significant role the travel and tourism industry plays in growing our economy.”

• “Tourism is one of the most essential industries to Alaska’s economy, employing thousands of hard-working Alaskans,” said Sen. Begich. “I am proud to join a group of bipartisan Senators to recognize the important role our travel and tourism businesses play in creating jobs and stimulating our overall economy.”

• “From the lights of Las Vegas to the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe, Nevadans and all Americans understand that tourism creates jobs,” said Sen. Reid.  “As we emerge from the economic recession, tourism is one of the leading sectors of growth in providing opportunities for working families to get ahead.  I am pleased to recognize the importance of the travel industry in Nevada and across our nation during National Travel and Tourism Week.”

• “Whether it’s the Mall of America or a bed and breakfast in Grand Marais, tourism is an engine of growth in countless Minnesota communities,” said Sen. Klobuchar.  “Boosting tourism will help create better opportunities for international travelers to visit the U.S. and help our businesses grow and thrive.”
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  "In New Hampshire, we know the importance of tourism well,” said Sen. Shaheen. “The tourism and travel industry is a critical driver of our economy, representing the second largest industry in the state and supporting over 60,000 jobs statewide. I have been proud to introduce legislation strengthening our nation's tourism industry and to support efforts to help bring more people to come enjoy all that the Granite State has to offer.”

• "When one in eight jobs depends on tourism and travel, this industry is an invaluable asset to our country and to Illinois," said Sen. Kirk.  "This resolution acknowledges the need to prioritize and promote travel initiatives, which will create new jobs and enhance cross-cultural understanding." 

• “I am happy to join with my colleagues today to show support for a strong and growing travel and tourism industry which is so important for job growth in Nevada. Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and Reno have long been a favorite destination for millions who want to enjoy our hotel, gaming, entertainment and convention services.  Travel and tourism are the lifeblood for businesses and future job creation in Nevada and I look forward to further promoting the industry,” said Senator Dean Heller.

• “The Palmetto State is home to countless world-class beaches, golf courses and historical sites, and tourism contributes billions of dollars to our economy every year,” said Sen. Scott. I am pleased to join my colleagues in recognizing the vital role that travel and tourism plays in our economy, and I am grateful to the hardworking residents of the South Carolina that make our state a top destination for travelers from around the globe.”

The first full week in May is recognized as National Travel and Tourism week. Today’s resolution recognizes the important contributions the industry makes to the U.S. economy: 1 out of every 8 jobs in the U.S. depends on travel and tourism and the industry currently supports over 14,600,000 million jobs, employing individuals in all 50 states. According to the Virginia Tourism Corporation, travel and tourism is a $34 billion a year industry in Virginia supporting 325,600 direct and indirect jobs.