Sunshine Matters

Today, Governor Scott signed the 2014-2015 state budget, which included a record $74 million for tourism marketing.  With the substantial increase in VISIT FLORIDA funding, Florida tourism is well-positioned to build on three consecutive years of record visitation, visitor spending and job creation. I would like to thank Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature for their visionary leadership and extraordinary support of VISIT FLORIDA and the state’s tourism industry.

Here are the reactions of several of the industry’s key leaders:

Tammy Gustafson, Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and Senior Director of Sales Integration with Universal Orlando Resort
“The fact that VISIT FLORIDA funding has more than doubled in the last four years is a clear indication that our state leaders recognize the importance of tourism and our industry’s role in strengthening the Florida economy and creating jobs for Floridians.  It is also a strong endorsement of the industry-driven nature of our public/private partnership and our success in generating a substantial return on the state’s investment in VISIT FLORIDA’s cooperative marketing programs.”

Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors
“By investing in an industry that represents Florida’s largest job creator, Governor Rick Scott and the Legislature continue their unwavering support in bolstering the state’s economy, in turn enhancing the quality of life for families in our great state. The increased funding to VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing efforts will give visitors and residents alike the opportunity to enjoy Florida’s world-class hotels, restaurants and attractions and ensure our state remains a wonderful place to live, work and play.”

Andrew Hertz, Vice Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and General Manager of Miami Seaquarium
“Every dollar the state invests in VISIT FLORIDA is matched nearly 2-to-1 in private sector investment by our tourism industry partners. The destination marketing programs VISIT FLORIDA develops give Florida tourism a distinct advantage in today’s highly competitive international travel marketplace.”

John Tomlin, Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Audit Committee and Chief Operating Office at The Auto Club Group

“The state’s tourism industry is well-positioned to build on three consecutive years of record visitation, and I have no doubt that we will achieve our goal of welcoming 100 million visitors and establishing Florida as the No. 1 travel destination in the world.”

Click on the links provided to view the releases sent out by Governor Scott’s Press Office on the sections of the 2014-2015 budget pertaining to Business Development and Job Growth and Support for Florida’s Veterans.