U.S. Representative Scott Peters (CA-52) today toured the Hyatt Regency La Jolla in San Diego, California as a Heart of House hotel tour, citing the impact the hotel industry has on job growth in the state. The tour provides lawmakers an opportunity to discuss issues of job growth and career building in the hotel industry, with staff and employers alike. On the tour, Rep. Peters spoke with employees and Hyatt Regency General Manager to hear concerns regarding issues facing the industry.

The hotel industry is a significant contributor to the California economy, generating $7.6 billion in tax revenue for state and local governments. This segment of the economy is responsible for 50 percent of jobs in the state, and as is reflective of the industry as a whole, a significant number of hotels are small businesses.

"The men and women I met today are the heart of the hotel, and their dedication to excellence ensures that visitors to this hotel, and to San Diego, have a great experience," said Peters. "California is known world-wide as a destination location, with travel and tourism bringing in billions of dollars every year and Congress must continue to support the travel and tourism industry."

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA), the sole national association representing all segments of the 1.8 million-employee lodging industry, working together with state associations 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 impact the lodging industry has on the local, state and national economies.