The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a subcommittee hearing on June 14, 2023, focusing on the oversight and implementation of travel and tourism legislation. Key discussions centered on the Fair and Open Skies Act and the establishment of a new assistant secretary position for travel and tourism within the Department of Commerce.

Senator Klobuchar emphasized the need to create a level playing field for American airline companies and workers. She highlighted the Fair and Open Skies Act, which aims to ensure that foreign airlines operating in the U.S. adhere to the same regulations as American businesses. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has established Open Skies agreements with over 130 foreign partners, covering more than 70% of international departures from the U.S. These agreements are credited with generating approximately $4 billion annually in economic gains by promoting travel, trade, and job creation.

In addition, the hearing addressed the newly created position of assistant secretary of commerce for travel and tourism, established by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. This role is the first of its kind in the U.S. and will focus on setting annual visitation goals and coordinating government strategies to support tourism. The Department of Commerce has requested $3.5 million in funding to support this new office, which will report to the undersecretary for international trade.

The committee expressed commitment to enhancing the travel and tourism sector, particularly in the wake of challenges posed by the pandemic. The establishment of the assistant secretary position is seen as a significant step towards revitalizing the industry and ensuring effective interagency coordination to meet tourism goals.