Bilirakis' Brand USA Reauthorization Passes House of Representatives

"Tourism is an integral part of our economy – especially in Florida. Increased tourism means more American and Floridian jobs. My legislation means job growth without utilizing a dime of taxpayer dollars. Millions of Americans across the country are still struggling, and H.R. 4450 will help them get back to work. Brand USA reauthorization is a jobs bill," Bilirakis declared.

"I am proud that my colleagues have joined me in a bipartisan effort to pass H.R. 4450 by an overwhelming vote of 347-57 in the House of Representatives, continuing the House's track record of passing meaningful, impactful bills to help Americans across the country. The Travel Promotion, Enhancement, and Modernization Act will increase Brand USA's efficiency, effectiveness, transparency – it is a huge step forward for the accountability of the program," Bilirakis continued. "It is my hope the Senate will pass the companion bill – S. 2250 – without delay."

H.R. 4450 will strengthen the United States' competitiveness in the global travel and tourism markets by reauthorizing Brand USA – a public-private partnership designed to encourage tourism to the United States. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), Brand USA will reduce the deficit by $231 million.

The travel and tourism sector is the top industry in Florida, employing more than one million Floridians and generating nearly $71.5 billion in spending. Nationally, the sector is the country's largest service export, fueling one in every nine jobs. International visitors add more than $180 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

To view Representative Bilirakis' floor statement, click here.