WASHINGTON -- U.S. National Tourism Organization officials said
they are looking for at least $20 million a year from Congress to
promote the U.S. in three key foreign markets, but would prefer $65
million a year to reach more countries.
However, the USNTO submitted a marketing report to Congress,
which was required by law, that does not propose a dollar amount.
The USNTO said it will not recommend a funding proposal until its
staff consults with key committees in Congress.
During the past several months, the industry has failed to reach
consensus on any specific funding vehicle that could be used. For
example, a proposal for a $1 to $3 departure fee on international
air tickets was rejected by the airlines.
At a press conference here, USNTO chairman Roger Ballou said,
"Right now the government spends nothing to promote travel to the
U.S. and yet more than 46 million foreigners visited this country
in 1996, spending $90 billion on hotel rooms, meals, car rentals,
theme parks, air fare and other travel services" and $9.4 billion
in federal, state and local taxes.
As ammunition, the Travel Industry Association and the Commerce
Department's Office of Tourism Industries released a study that
breaks down travel spending, employment and payroll in each of the
435 congressional districts.
USNTO supporters are facing an Oct. 11 deadline to implement a
long-term financing plan, or by law, the organization will
self-destruct.