Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today hosted his first meeting with the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB). The Advisory Board members presented their recommendations to Secretary Locke regarding airport congestion, travel facilitation and the economic sustainability of the travel and tourism industry.
“At Commerce, we’re working closely on tourism development with trade associations, destinations, and industry leaders,” Locke said. “We are tracking the industry because of its importance to the U.S. economy and understand the stress it is currently experiencing. I look forward to working with the Travel and Tourism Advisory Board to restore growth to this important sector. I know that the President's recovery plan is placing us on the right road for future prosperity.” Travel and tourism is the nation’s largest services sector export industry, and one of America’s largest employers. The industry ranks among the top three biggest employers in more than half the United States. In fact, 8.3 million jobs find its roots in travel and tourism.
The U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, established in 2005, consists of 14 travel and tourism industry leaders who advise the Secretary on government policies affecting the industry, and provide recommendations to facilitate travel to and within the United States.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
