The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) hosted a delegation of over 40 Active Member tour operators and Associate Members in Washington, D.C., on June 11-12, 2024. The group met with Congressional officials and industry representatives to advocate for crucial issues in the tourism sector, including sustainability, passport and visa application processing delays, promoting US tourism, and Real ID compliance.
The caucus began with presentations from key government officials. Marc Lerro, a program analyst for the TSA, Department of Homeland Security, provided updates, followed by Alex Lasry, deputy assistant secretary for Travel and Tourism at the Department of Commerce. Lasry emphasized the economic significance of inbound tourism and highlighted the Biden Administration’s National Travel and Tourism Strategy, especially as the US prepares for major international sporting events.
Andrew Newhart, vice president of Government Relations for US Travel, discussed the impact of visa wait times on tourism and sustainability advocacy efforts. Other notable speakers included attorneys from the US Department of Transportation, Jessica Klement, vice president of Advocacy for the American Society of Travel Advisors, and Lena McDowall, deputy director of Management and Administration for the National Park Service. Representative Mike Collins (R-GA-10) concluded the morning session with remarks on tourism’s importance.
In the afternoon, USTOA members held meetings with leading Congressional members to address core issues, including:
Sustainability: Promoting eco-friendly tourism practices.
Promoting US Tourism: Enhancing the appeal of the US as a travel destination.
Passport and Visa Processing: Tackling delays and backlogs.
National Parks Funding: Ensuring adequate funding for national parks.
Travel Infrastructure: Improving facilities and services for travelers.
Aviation Consumer Protections: Enhancing protections for air travelers.
Real ID: Discussing the implementation and impact of Real ID requirements.
USTOA President Terry Dale highlighted the event’s success, stating, “USTOA’s twelfth Congressional Caucus was a highly productive gathering, emphasizing the value of the travel and tourism industry.
Advocacy remains a major pillar of USTOA, crucial for guiding our country towards a sustainable and responsible travel and tourism future.”
Dale also thanked the sponsors of the USTOA Congressional Caucus, including the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Board, which hosted a dinner at the Sri Lanka Embassy on June 11; Museum of the Bible, the meeting venue sponsor; Crum & Forster, host of the morning sessions on June 12; and CCRA Travel Commerce Network for providing name badges.
This advocacy effort underscores USTOA’s commitment to addressing the challenges and opportunities within the travel and tourism industry, aiming to foster a sustainable and vibrant future for the sector.