WASHINGTON (December 17, 2019) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) today released the following statement praising the United States House of Representatives for passing the FY 2020 funding bill. The quote is attributable to Chip Rogers, president and CEO of AHLA. 

“The hotel and lodging industry applauds the House of Representatives for passing the FY 2020 funding bill, which includes positive momentum on several issues imperative to our industry. 

Included in the bill is the reauthorization of Brand USA, the nation’s only direct marketing organization, is critically important to encouraging more inbound international travelers, and relief under the H-2B cap provides opportunities for seasonal workforce. With the hotel industry supporting 1 in 25 American jobs, encouraging greater travel and tourism to the United States is critically to powering the nation’s economy. Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) is another fundamental function that allows hotels pivotal insurance to cover the risk of loss to collateral.

Other important measures that also support our industry were included in the bill, and the movement of the FY 2020 funding bill in the House is a critical first step. We urge Members of the United States Senate and subsequently, the Administration, to swiftly pass this legislation and sign it into law.”