ALBANY, NY State and capital region tourism professionals here are endorsing proposed legislation that would dedicate a portion of the taxes already collected by hotels, restaurants and car rental agencies to the state s “I Love NY” campaign and other state and local tourism efforts. Currently, those programs are funded annually from the state s general fund at the discretion of the governor and the legislature.
In addition to increasing the money funneled each year to tourism, the plan would take funding out of lawmakers hands and tie it to the industry s success. The bill could go into effect June 1 if it passes, and will potentially bring in $27 million to promote the industry in its first year. (2/5/01)
SOURCE:Times Union, Albany, NY