WASHINGTON (March 4, 2020) – The following is a statement from Chip Rogers, AHLA president and CEO, on an emergency supplemental appropriations package to address the threat of COVID-19.

“Hoteliers are deeply committed to the health safety of both the millions of people we employ, and the millions of guests who we serve at our hotels each day. The domestic lodging industry supports more than 1 in 25 American jobs, both at our properties and throughout the communities we serve, and we contribute nearly $660 billion to U.S. GDP. Our success would not be possible without a robust travel and tourism sector. To that end, we strongly urge the traveling public to follow current CDC guidance and recognize that there are currently no travel restrictions in the continental U.S. 

"The hotel industry is grateful for Congress’ diligent and immediate attention to the COVID-19 public health crisis, which impacts not only the health and well-being of the American people, but also our nation’s economy. Congress correctly recognized the urgent need to appropriate the funding necessary to support state and local health organizations and to accelerate the research and development of a potential vaccine and we strongly support swift passage of the emergency supplemental appropriations package.”

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