ACTION ALERT – HELP PROTECT FUNDING FOR COLORADO’S TOURISM INDUSTRYFunding for tourism promotion in Colorado is in jeopardy. NOW is the time for tourism industry members and friends to take action to educate and encourage our legislators about the importance of the tourism industry in the state. The latest recommendation from the Governor’s Office is to slash the tourism promotion budget by almost half. Few other programs are subject to as large of a reduction as tourism. In economic times like these, revenue generating programs like tourism are essential. The Colorado travel industry generated $763 million in state and local tax revenues in 2007, resulting in a savings of $407 per average family household. For every dollar the state spends on promoting travel to Colorado, it makes $13 in return. In addition, the industry is the second largest employer in the state, providing 143,000 jobs. Visitor spending in Colorado generates significant tax revenue that the state cannot afford to lose. Despite the tough economy, people will still travel. To stay competitive, Colorado needs a robust tourism promotion program. Please call or email your legislators today to tell them that “Tourism pays for Colorado” and to ask them to support the full funding of tourism promotion. Your message needs to focus on tourism’s return on investment (ROI) for all of the hard-working families in Colorado. To find out who your legislator is, visit: www.votesmart.org Time is critical for contacting your legislators and media outlets with this important message. If you do nothing else in the next 48 hours, please contact your district senators and representatives, and let your voice be heard! Our Mission: To be the leading professional association and information portal for those who direct sales and marketing functions in hospitality, travel and tourism |
