Explore Minnesota Legislative Session Update - February 14

Explore Minnesota Legislative Session Update - February 14
Keeping you in the know of travel and tourism at the Minnesota State Capitol and beyond. Because #TourismMatters to all Minnesotans.

Explore Minnesota Testifies on Behalf of Governor's Budget Proposal for Travel and Tourism
Last Thursday, February 8th, Explore Minnesota executive director Lauren Bennett McGinty presented the Governor's budget proposal to the Senate Committee on Jobs and Economic Development. The proposal includes $28.4M all oriented towards continuing to ensure Minnesota is a destination of choice. Read more about the Governor's budget proposal for Explore Minnesota.

See You at the Annual Tourism Conference on February 28
The 2023 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference is an annual opportunity for members of Minnesota's travel industry to hear from national keynote speakers, participate in breakout sessions, and network. This event is a one-day hybrid event held in-person at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington with a virtual attendance option as well.

Explore Minnesota looks forward to hosting an educational and inspiring day for hundreds of tourism and hospitality leaders from across the state.  In-person registration is being offered at the affordable rate of $99 per person, or join the virtual broadcast of keynote sessions no charge.  Register Now!

Why #TourismMatters to Minnesota
Tourism is a $16 billion industry for Minnesota, touches almost every industry in the state and is vital for Minnesota's economy. With 229,000 jobs for Minnesotans, tourism is a gateway to economic expansion through attraction and retention of workforce and business investment.

The pandemic changed the travel and tourism industry forever, requiring a new direction for a stronger future. While Minnesota's tourism industry continues to recover, we are falling behind the rest of the country. Minnesota was one of only three states not to receive a budget increase during the pandemic.

The time is now to increase investments in tourism to support Minnesota's communities and small businesses and to elevate our state as a top tier destination for national and international travelers. For more information, visit TourismMatters.org

LEGISLATORS: Book a meeting to discuss #TourismMatters with Explore Minnesota's executive director Lauren Bennett McGinty.  

COUNCIL MEMBERS: Be sure to book time with your legislators to discuss why #TourismMatters to Minnesota.

Stay tuned to Explore Minnesota over the coming weeks for more ways #TourismMatters to Minnesota. And Share your Why #TourismMatters to your local community on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!