May 10, 2010

Washington, DC – Nevada Senator Harry Reid today made the following statement on National Travel and Tourism Week.

“The travel and tourism industry is responsible for the livelihood of tens of thousands of Nevadans and serves as the engine of our state’s economy.  As we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week, it is important to recognize the contributions of those Nevadans and the role they play in positioning Las Vegas, Reno and Lake Tahoe among the greatest resort destinations in the world.  It was with our recent economic challenges in mind that I led the U.S. Senate in passing the Travel Promotion Act, legislation recently signed into law by the President.  This new law will allow us to promote our nation’s great tourist destinations around the world, boost the number of visitors from foreign lands and create jobs in the process.

“I thank the Las Vegas and Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authorities for their efforts to boost tourism and strengthen our economy.  I also thank those involved with Travel Rally Day for highlighting the impact of travel on local workers, businesses and economies in Nevada.  If we continue working together, we can ensure a bright, successful future for the Silver State.”