Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)
Washington, D.C. -Earlier today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) celebrated their introduction of the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act, legislation aimed at strengthening the travel and tourism sector during the upcoming joint review of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) and positioning the United States to maximize global travel opportunities ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. As the United States prepares to commemorate America 250, an initiative expected to drive historic levels of domestic and international travel, the legislation ensures that the travel and tourism industry has a formal voice in North American trade discussions. The bill directs the U.S. Trade Representative to advocate for the establishment of a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group as part of the USMCA Joint Review. While the agreement includes joint working groups for other key industries, travel and tourism – one of the largest contributors to the U.S. economy – remains unrepresented. With America 250 expected to draw millions of international visitors, ensuring seamless cross-border travel and cooperation with Canada and Mexico – our two largest trading partners – is critical to fully realizing the economic benefits of this milestone celebration.
“Travel and tourism are major drivers of the U.S. economy, supporting millions of jobs, generating significant export revenue, and strengthening communities across the country,”said Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Co-Chair of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus. “As we prepare to welcome the world for America’s 250th anniversary, establishing a dedicated Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group will provide a focused forum to address trade barriers, expand market access, and enhance cooperation, ensuring this critical sector continues to contribute to economic growth, competitiveness, and resilience.”
“For districts like ours that welcome millions of visitors each year, tourism isn’t just an industry, it’s a driver of jobs and economic growth,” said Buchanan. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, ensuring seamless, efficient travel between the United States, Canada and Mexico is essential to keeping our tourism industry strong. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act to ensure travel and tourism are fully represented during the upcoming USMCA joint review and to keep our economy open for business.”
The USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act reflects Congress’s commitment to leveraging the America 250 initiative to promote economic opportunity, cultural exchange, and international engagement across North America.