U.S. Sen. Martha McSally, R-Ariz., has introduced legislation encouraging Americans to support the tourism industry following the COVID-19 pandemic by taking a trip.
The bill, called the American TRIP Act, would provide tax credits to Americans who spend money on lodging, entertainment, and other expenses related to travel in the United States and its territories. Additionally, the bill provides funding for Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) to promote the travel and tourism industry.
In the State of Arizona, travel and tourism account for more than $3 billion in tax receipts and employs more than 180,000 people. As a result of the economic downturn due to the coronavirus, this sector is experiencing one of the highest unemployment rates, which was over 35 percent in May.
“The tourism and hospitality industries were among the hardest hit sectors across the country and their revival is critical to our economic recovery,” McSally said in a news release. “Arizona has lost billions in revenue this year alone due to the pandemic.
“My legislation will help boost domestic travel and jumpstart the comeback of our hotels, entertainment sectors, local tourism agencies, and the thousands of businesses that make Arizona one of the best places in the world to visit,” McSally added. “It will also encourage Americans to safely get out of their homes and discover or rediscover Arizona along with the rest of the amazing destinations our country has to offer after a difficult several months stuck inside.”
The bill would give a $4,000 travel credit for individuals and $8,000 for joint filers (plus an additional $500 credit for dependent children), for 2020, 2021 and 2022.
