U.S. tourism measure draws mixed industry reviews

March 08, 2010 |

The U.S. travel industry is hoping that a new tourism law will reverse a decline in international travelers to the country in recent years and create jobs, but some say the measure could backfire.

President Barack Obama on Thursday signed into law the Travel Promotion Act, a measure that will set up an 11-member board to develop a national multi-channel marketing campaign to draw foreign travelers and provide information on travel policies.

Industry executives say the act can help strengthen the U.S. economy and revive the sector, which has taken a hit as the recession dampened demand for air travel and led consumers to cut back discretionary spending at hotels and restaurants.

But some in the travel industry expressed concern about a $10 fee that will be charged every two years to visitors from countries that participate in the Visa waiver program. That fee, along with voluntary private sector contributions, will be used to pay for the program.

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