Across-the-board sequestration cuts for an array of federal government functions are starting to take a toll on travel to and throughout the U . s . a .. And meaning trouble for tourism, an NTA leader warns.
“NTA could be very concerned that cutbacks in funding could have negative impacts on visitation, jobs, the U.S. economy and the balance of trade,” said Lisa Simon, president of NTA. “Tourism is an investment that produces jobs and revenue that support the remainder of the U.S. economy, and these cuts may cause serious ripple effects.”
Simon added that the sequester cuts come at a foul time. In a up to date survey, NTA members reported a rebound in 2012 business following a chronic economic slowdown, and nearly all of all members projected an excellent brighter 2013—tour operators (59 percent), suppliers (70 percent) and DMOs (74 percent).
Sequestration took effect on March 1, however the full impact of federal reductions in personnel hours and operating budgets continues to mount. NTA is most closely following cuts in five areas that directly impact tourism:
* FAA air traffic controllers: Furloughs began yesterday and flight delays started today.
* Transportation Security Administration personnel
* Customs and Border Protection officers at airports and border crossings
* consulate offices overseas, which process visas and conduct interviews
* federal parks and public lands, where staffing reductions will limit or delay access
Simon said NTA also is looking forward to increased fees at U.S. national parks, diverted operational funds for parks and public lands, and changes to funding for marketing america as a global destination.
“NTA will keep a detailed eye on how these issues impact the travel economy and our members’ livelihoods, and we are able to work with other travel organizations to tell Congress and the Obama administration in regards to the significant, adverse effects of sequestration,” said Simon. “The travel sector must increase its efforts to aid public policy makers understand the specter of reduced funding.”
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