Tourism has been key in sustaining Florida’s economic livelihood for years, with touristic expenditures generating 19 percent of our total state revenue last year. With state government, businesses and everyday Floridians in clear need of a strong solution to the current economic crisis, tourism is a viable solution that can generate significant dollars – but visitors don’t just show up; it takes experienced marketing to bring them here.
VISIT FLORIDA and Florida’s tourism industry partners have a track record of successfully marketing our state as a prime tourist destination, but now they need your help.
As Florida experiences staggering budget cuts, increasing unemployment rates and an economic recession, we must capitalize on our state’s strongest resources for creating revenue and jobs. The reality is that the global travel business is hugely competitive and Florida’s tourism industry must hang on to its piece of the pie. Just last year, VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing efforts directly attracted 12.5 million visitors – and $9.75 billion in tourism spending to Florida. Losing this resource would be a devastating blow.
As our state faces a budget shortfall this session, lawmakers have the opportunity to view VISIT FLORIDA as part of the budget solution so that we continue to bring visitors to the Sunshine State.
Florida’s tourism industry supports Governor Crist’s recommendation to sustain public funding for VISIT FLORIDA in FY 2009 – 2010. We must continue to invest in tourism marketing to bring visitors to our state and generate additional revenue.
The Florida tourism industry accounts for:
- $65.5 billion in travel spending
- $3.9 billion in sales tax collections
- $513 million in TDC tax collections
- 991,300 Floridians directly employed in travel related jobs
The Partnership for Florida’s Tourism needs you to visit the Capitol and speak with Legislators about why VISIT FLORIDA and tourism marketing are integral to our state. Share your story – tell how tourism affects your business and your community. Florida lawmakers need to hear from you. To take action, please visit www.FloridasTourismCounts.org.