Bill > HB648

This bill, known as the Tourism Revenue Recovery and Global Promotion Act, aims to bolster the state's tourism economy, particularly in the face of global trade disruptions and slowdowns in foreign travel. It establishes a grant program administered by the Alabama Tourism Department for eligible tourism businesses—those involved in lodging, travel, entertainment, attractions, or hospitality services—that have been negatively impacted by "tourism-related disruptions," meaning declines in visitors or revenue due to international travel restrictions or trade issues; these grants, capped at $100,000 per entity, can be used for staffing, facility updates, or operational continuity. The bill also creates a competitive grant program to fund tourism infrastructure projects like park improvements, visitor centers, and signage, and mandates both international and domestic marketing campaigns to attract visitors by promoting the state's attractions and experiences through various media channels. Furthermore, it establishes the Tourism Sector Economic Monitoring Council, composed of five members appointed by legislative leaders, to track global trends, analyze trade risks, advise on strategies, and publish an annual tourism impact report, with the entire act set to take effect on October 1, 2026.