[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 159 (Friday, September 30, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1015]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           VISIT AMERICA ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. DINA TITUS

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 28, 2022

  Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in favor of my legislation to 
strengthen the U.S. travel and tourism industry at a time when it is 
needed most.
  Las Vegas welcomes nearly 43 million visitors annually from around 
the world. My Visit America Act will ensure tourism is at the table 
when we consider national economic policy.
  Currently, the United States is the only member of the G20 that does 
not have a Cabinet-level or equivalent position focused on tourism.
  My bill creates an Assistant Secretary position at the Department of 
Commerce specifically charged with strengthening the United States 
travel and tourism industry. This department will work with other 
agencies to coordinate a comprehensive tourism strategy and help 
position cities like Las Vegas to serve as hosts for large meetings, 
conferences, and exhibitions.
  Having a position at the Department of Commerce to oversee travel and 
tourism will not only help insulate Southern Nevada's regional economy 
from future economic shocks but also better position the U.S. travel 
economy in the age of global competitiveness.
  I look forward to working with the new Assistant Secretary to bolster 
our hospitality industry and let the world know the U.S. is a great 
place to visit, to work, and to play.

                          ____________________