Cicilline Pushing for Resources to Protect Rhode Island’s Tourism Economy
PAWTUCKET – U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (RI-01) is pushing for substantial relief for the tourism industry as Congress grapples with the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.
“One of every ten jobs in this country is tied to the travel and tourism industry. We look forward to working with you on a long-term recovery package that keeps these workers in mind,” Cicilline wrote to Speaker Pelosi and House negotiators in a letter today. “Together, we must ensure that the workers, their families, and the communities we represent are able to rebound from this crisis.”
Tourism is the fifth-largest industry in Rhode Island, generating more than $6 billion in annual economic activity and supporting nearly 80,000 jobs. Experts predict that worldwide tourism could be cut in half over the next six weeks as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The full text of the letter sent by Cicilline and 49 colleagues is embedded below.
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Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Chairman Neal, Ranking Member Brady, Chairwoman Lowey, and Ranking Member Granger,
As members from districts with major ties to travel and tourism, we are deeply concerned about the communities and businesses that have been devastated by the total shutdown of the tourism economy as restaurants, resorts, retailers, sport facilities, entertainment venues, museums, cultural centers, ports, parks, airports and more have closed or been significantly impacted by the spread of COVID-19.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, an estimated 4.6 million jobs and $355 billion in revenue will be lost this year in the travel and tourism industry. As Congress considers the next phase of our response, it is imperative that we include proposals that will assist these workers and businesses which are vital to our nation’s economy.
One of every ten jobs in this country is tied to the travel and tourism industry. We look forward to working with you on a long-term recovery package that keeps these workers in mind. Together, we must ensure that the workers, their families, and the communities we represent are able to rebound from this crisis. We thank you for your continued leadership.