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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | October 9, 2024 12:06 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Carolyn T. Comitta |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Promoting Tourism, Culture, and the Arts in Pennsylvania |
| Tourism is one of the largest industries in Pennsylvania, serving as a major economic driver and creating jobs in every corner of the state. Earlier this year, the Pennsylvania Tourism Office released a report showing that Pennsylvania welcomed 192.4 million visitors in 2022, generating $76.7 billion in economic impact, supporting 486,871 jobs, and contributing $4.7 billion in state and local taxes. Pennsylvania is also blessed to have a rich history, vibrant culture, and flourishing arts sector, all of which serve as major tourism magnets and make valuable contributions to our economy. From our many historical sites dating back to the foundations of this country to festivals, performances, and many cultural events, there are countless reasons to visit Pennsylvania, and our tourism potential is a major asset for our future. By expanding our support for marketing Pennsylvania as a destination while also investing in our historical, cultural, and artistic attractions and institutions, we can use this potential to draw tourists, grow our economy, and create jobs. That is why I will be introducing legislation to redirect Hotel Occupancy Tax revenue collected by booking agents on behalf of unlicensed hotels (such as Airbnbs and other homestays) to the Tourism Promotion Fund, which already receives money from booking agent accommodation fees. Revenue collected would be allocated to the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to promote and market Pennsylvania to out-of-state visitors, and to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA) to expand state grant programs that support the historical, cultural, and artistic attractions tourists come to see. PA is at the center of America250's celebration and building our tourism will enhance our efforts to be a part of the celebration. Companion legislation will be introduced in the House by Rep. Ciresi. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation to encourage more tourists to visit Pennsylvania while investing in the rich culture that makes our state thrive and a great place to live. |
Memo Updated: October 9, 2024 12:07 PM