Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Tourism Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Panel backs bill to create industry advisory group for voluntary visitor assessment
Summary
The committee reported substitute Senate Bill 5,492 out of committee with a do‑pass recommendation; the bill would establish an industry advisory group to recommend a voluntary, industry‑supported visitor assessment program to support tourism.
On March 21, 2025, the Technology, Economic Development and Veterans Committee voted to report substitute Senate Bill 5,492 out of committee with a do‑pass recommendation. The bill would establish an industry advisory group charged with recommending a voluntary, industry‑supported visitor assessment for tourism.
Representative Cortez, who described her experience managing a municipal tourism program, told the committee the bill would move the tourism industry "in the right direction" and provide a strong return on investment. Representative Keaton also voiced support. There were no amendments in committee for this bill; the staff announced a voice roll call and recorded 10 ayes and 3 excused.
Votes at a glance - Motion: Report substitute Senate Bill 5,492 out of committee with a do pass recommendation. - Outcome: Approved (reported out of committee) - Tally: 10 yes, 0 no, 3 excused
Why it matters: The advisory group would shape recommendations for a voluntary visitor assessment to fund tourism promotion or management, which could affect local tourism programs that depend on marketing and visitor services funding. The transcript records committee support but does not include the advisory‑group charter or the assessment’s proposed rate or scope.
What the transcript does not specify: Details of the proposed assessment (rate, collection mechanism, or legal authority) and whether the advisory group’s recommendations would be mandatory; those would be determined by subsequent bill text and rulemaking if enacted.
