(Tallahassee, Fla.) – The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) applauds today’s announcement by Florida Governor Rick Scott recommending a $24 million increase in the state’s investment in VISIT FLORIDA. This funding amount is in addition to the Governor’s $76 million recommendation and would allocate a total of $100 million for the state’s destination marketing corporation in the budget for
fiscal year 2017-2018.
“We are extremely grateful for the Governor’s continued leadership and foresight to increase the state’s investment in Florida’s tourism industry. This announcement comes at a critical time when lawmakers are proposing dramatic cuts to VISIT FLORIDA’s budget. Florida’s economy depends on visitors selecting the Sunshine State as their leading destination. By providing VISIT FLORIDA with the tools necessary to boost visitation, we’re injecting tourist spending into local businesses and promoting job creation across all sectors of the state’s economy,” said Carol Dover,
President and CEO of the FRLA.
According to the Office of Economic Demographic Research’s Return on Investment study of VISIT FLORIDA, for every $1 the state invests in VISIT FLORIDA, the state sees a $3.20 return. In 2016, Florida welcomed a record number of tourists with 112.8 million visitors to the state.
The FRLA represents and serves more than 10,000 independent and household name members across the state, including hotels, restaurants, theme parks and attractions.
Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
Richard Turner, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association: Regarding the passage of Senate Bill 106
Statement by Richard Turner, General Counsel and Vice President of Government Relations, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association
Regarding the passage of Senate Bill 106
“The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association would like to thank members of the Florida Senate for passing Senate Bill 106 last week. Their vote to repeal the antiquated Alcohol Separation Law is a step in the right direction for both Florida retailers and consumers. There are far too many beverage laws that no longer align with the realities of today’s society, and it’s time to reduce governmental regulations and allow businesses to meet their customers’ evolving needs.
FRLA is proud to stand with the Floridians for Fair Business Practices coalition, and we are pleased to support the advancement of Florida businesses through this legislation. We encourage Representatives to finally get this Prohibition-era law off the books by passing House Bill 81.”
Floridians for Fair Business Practices is a coalition of retailers and business groups whose purpose is to identify rules and regulations, which prohibit the growth and expansion of Florida businesses. For additional information, please visit www.FairBizinFlorida.com.
