Bill > SB1145

This bill amends the Michigan Tourism Policy Act of 1945 by moving the administrative home of both the Michigan Travel Commission and the travel bureau from the Department of Commerce to the Department of Treasury, while officially restoring their respective statutory authorities, powers, and internal management responsibilities. The legislation updates the governance and requirements for the 13-member Travel Commission—which consists of tourism industry experts appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate—to clarify that its members serve unpaid for a maximum of two four-year terms, must comply with the state's Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act, and will recommend a travel bureau director to the state treasurer rather than the commerce director. Additionally, the bill outlines specific duties for the travel bureau, such as marketing Michigan as a travel destination, ensuring that state-funded promotional efforts document expected and actual benefits to the state's tourism industry, and assisting local and regional tourism development organizations.