Sullivan, Colleagues Introduce VISIT USA Act to Restore Brand USA Funding, Promote U.S. Tourism
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.)—all members of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee—have introduced the Vital Investment in Sustaining International Tourism to the USA (VISIT USA) Act to fully restore Brand USA’s funding in Fiscal Years (FY) 2026 and 2027. Brand USA is a public-private partnership charged with promoting America as a premier international travel destination and clearly communicating U.S. visa and entry policies abroad. This legislation will fully fund Brand USA to promote the United States as an international travel destination ahead of several significant events hosted in the U.S., including the 250thanniversary of America’s independence, the FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Olympic games. President Trump’s FY 2026 budget request also calls for fully funding Brand USA.
“The United States is the third most visited country in the world. As we prepare to host several once-in-a-generation global events—from America250, to the FIFA World Cup, to the 2028 Olympic Games—there has never been a better moment to showcase all that our country has to offer,” Sen. Sullivan said. “Restoring Brand USA’s full funding will help us welcome more international visitors, strengthen our tourism economy, and support the thousands of small businesses that make America and Alaska such remarkable places to experience.”
“Travel and tourism powers economic growth in communities in Minnesota and across our country,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan legislation will restore funding for Brand USA, providing the resources it needs to continue to support an additional 1.6 million visitors, $6 billion in spending, and nearly 80,000 jobs every year—all at no cost to taxpayers.”
“As the United States prepares to host major global events like the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, it is more important than ever that we put our best foot forward to attract international visitors. Tourism is a powerful economic driver for states like West Virginia and communities across the country, supporting local jobs and small businesses. This legislation will allow Brand USA to access existing surplus visa fee revenues, which will in turn help strengthen America’s ability to welcome travelers, promote our communities, and compete on the world stage,” Sen. Capito said.
“Nevada is a world-class destination with so much to offer, from entertainment and sports to National Parks,” said Sen. Rosen. “Our economy relies heavily on international tourism, which is why I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan legislation to fully restore funding for Brand USA over the next two years and show the world all of the wonderful things we have to offer. At a time when international visitation numbers are down, we need to do everything we can to encourage more tourists to come and visit our wonderful nation.”
“Alaska’s landscapes and cultures appeal to visitors from across the country and around the globe,” said Jillian Simpson, president and CEO of the Alaska Travel Industry Association. “The Alaska Travel Industry Association is grateful for Senator Sullivan’s ongoing support for Alaska’s small tourism businesses through his sponsorship of the VISIT USA Act. Restoring funding for the important Brand USA program will help the United States maintain a competitive position and remain top-of-mind with international travelers looking for their next adventure. Many thanks to Senator Sullivan for his leadership in sponsoring this critical piece of legislation.”
“This legislation is an important step forward, and we are grateful for Senators Sullivan and Klobuchar for leading this effort," said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. "With the World Cup, America 250 and the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, the U.S. has a pivotal chance to capture global attention. By restoring Brand USA’s resources, Congress can help drive new visitors, support jobs nationwide and ensure the United States stands out on the world stage.”
The legislation is endorsed by the U.S. Travel Association, the Alaska Travel Industry Association, and Visit Anchorage. Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) and Kathy Castor (D-Fla.) have introduced companion legislation in the House.
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