WTTC Hails the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has expressed words of praise for the recently-passed American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 in the U.S. Congress.

“This incredible stimulus package will be welcomed by Travel & Tourism businesses across the U.S., many of whom are struggling to survive. This package promises a much-needed boost while the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the sector,” said WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara in a statement.

The $14 billion allocated to airlines will come as a monumental relief, following almost a year without widespread international travel, which has left many on the brink of collapse.

“Our recent economic modeling showed the devastating effects the COVID-19 pandemic is having on the U.S. Travel & Tourism sector, with 9.2 million jobs impacted and $155 billion lost from the U.S economy due to the collapse of international travel last year. This catastrophic loss to the economy equates to a shortfall of $425 million every day, or nearly $3 billion a week,” Mrs. Guevara went on to say. “WTTC and our 200 Members would like to thank President Biden and Vice President Harris for recognizing the importance of our sector.”

According to the WTTC statement, these bold steps are needed to reinvigorate the travel sector and will provide a significant boost to the U.S. economy as the country begins to turn the tide against this terrible virus.