Houston, TX – May 6, 2016 – Today, U.S. Congressman Gene Green (D-TX) toured the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Houston Hobby Airport as part of AH&LA’s “Heart of the House” hotel tour program. The program allows members of Congress to get a behind-the-scene look at the industry and learn about the growth, opportunity and positive economic impact the hotel sector provides to communities.

The tour was led by Helen Bonsall, General Manager of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Houston Hobby Airport, and joined by Justin Bragiel, General Counsel of the Texas Hotel & Lodging Association and Stephanie Haynes, President of the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston.

During the tour, Congressman Green learned more about how hotels partner with communities and serve as an economic developer in Houston and across the Lone Star State. The group also discussed federal policies that impact the hotel industry, including the need for comprehensive immigration policy and supporting initiatives that continue to create jobs and economic development.

“As a native Houstonian, I’ve always appreciated businesses that contribute to our local community and support a robust workforce,” said Congressman Green. “Every day, hotel employees are supporting the 29th Congressional District and it was a pleasure to meet with some of our hospitality leaders to learn more about the great work this industry does. In addition, as a strong supporter of comprehensive immigration reform, we agree that it is crucial to create an adequate system that provides access to workers to meet economic growth and build upon the success of this industry.”

“Operating a hotel near an international airport and only a few miles from the heart of downtown, we serve as an economic pipeline to the rest of the city and often are the first or last impressions of the great city of Houston, in which we partake in with great pride,” said Bonsall.

“We strive to maintain a level of excellence day in and day out and this tour was a great opportunity to showcase the dedication to superior service and ability to greatly contribute to the local Houston community. It was great to share the dynamic success this industry has to offer,” said Stephanie Haynes, President of the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston.

The hotel industry is a vital part of the economic stability of Texas, helping to generate nearly $4 billion in tax revenue for state and local governments. Review the facts and figures on how Texas contributes to local jobs and the economyhere.

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) engages with members of Congress on the “Heart of the House” hotel tours to provide an in-depth look at the career opportunities available as well as the economic and community impact the lodging industry has on the local, state and national stage. 

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Serving the hospitality industry for more than a century, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) is the sole national association representing all segments of the 1.9 million-employee U.S. lodging industry, including hotel owners, REITs, chains, franchisees, management companies, independent properties, state hotel associations, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AH&LA provides focused advocacy, communications support, and educational resources for an industry of more than 53,000 properties generating $176 billion in annual sales from 5 million guestrooms.