Sunshine Matters

Today Governor Rick Scott released the 2015-16 “Keep Florida Working” budget.  I am happy to share that the Governor recommended an $85 million investment in VISIT FLORIDA.  With this increased funding, VISIT FLORIDA will continue to build on the state’s momentum and will be able to expand our successful integrated global marketing efforts.

On behalf of the statewide tourism industry,  I would like to thank the Governor for his visionary leadership and his recognition of VISIT FLORIDA’s ability to deliver a significant return on the state’s investment in tourism marketing.

Here are the reactions of key tourism industry leaders to today’s announcement:

Andrew Hertz, Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and General Manager of the Miami Seaquarium

“Tourism is not just a driver for the state’s economy today, but also provides an entree to future residents and businesses knowing that those who visit the Sunshine State are much more likely to move here.  Governor’s Scott’s continued support for increased VISIT FLORIDA funding is a wise investment that will benefit Florida’s families for many years to come.”

John Tomlin, Vice Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and Chief Operating Officer for The Auto Club Group

“Through the vision of Governor Scott, supported by increased funding over the past several years, Florida is on the verge of breaking through the 100 million visitor mark, a first for the state.  Increasing the number of people visiting Florida helps everyone, providing much needed sales tax revenue, job creation and the opportunity to showcase the state to future residents.  VISIT FLORIDA leverages state funding with matching industry expenditures to maximize the impact of those dollars.  Continued funding will enable VISIT FLORIDA to maintain the positive momentum created for Florida tourism.”

Terry Prather, Chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Marketing Council Steering Committee and President of SeaWorld Orlando

“The public dollars invested into VISIT FLORIDA continue to give our state a great return on investment.  Every public dollar spent in 2014 helped generate $300 in tourism spending.  With numbers like this, I support the Governor’s funding recommendation.”

Carol Dover, Member of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors and President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association

“It is clear that Governor Scott is ready to build on the successes of Florida’s hospitality and tourism industry by committing the necessary dollars to VISIT FLORIDA that will create jobs and generate revenue for the state.  He is a true advocate for more than one-million Floridians who work to create wonderful guest experiences and under his leadership the state’s No. 1 industry will continue to be a leading job creator.”