Sunshine Matters

Today, Governor Scott signed the 2013-2014 state budget.  In a press release sent to media this afternoon, VISIT FLORIDA and several key tourism industry leaders voiced support for its inclusion of increased tourism marketing funding.

Will Seccombe, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA

“With the substantial increase in VISIT FLORIDA funding, Florida tourism is extremely well positioned to build on two consecutive years of record visitation and job creation.  I would like to thank Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature for their visionary leadership and for their extraordinary support of VISIT FLORIDA and the state’s tourism industry,” said Will Seccombe, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA.

Glenn Hastings, Chairman of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and Executive Director of the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council

“The significant increase in VISIT FLORIDA funding over the past two 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 collective success in generating a substantial return on the state’s investment in VISIT FLORIDA’s cooperative marketing programs.”

Tammy Gustafson, Vice Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and Director of National & Group Sales with Universal Orlando Resort
“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.”

Carol Dover, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association
“It’s simple math. Every 85 visitors to the state support one Florida job. I applaud Governor Scott and the Legislature for their commitment to increased funding for VISIT FLORIDA’s marketing efforts which will strengthen the Florida economy and create jobs by encouraging more tourism in our great state.”

To view the sections of the 2013-2014 budget pertaining to “Business Development and Job Growth,” click here.