Byron Dorgan: “Earlier I introduced the American Travel Industry Stabilization Act on behalf of myself, Senator Conrad, Senator Reid…”

“Earlier I introduced the American Travel Industry Stabilization Act on behalf of myself, Senator Conrad, Senator Reid, Senator Inouye, and Senator Specter. I wish to simply explain the purpose for this. As we proceed to think through the economic stimulus package that we will put together to try to provide lift to this economy, we need to consider what has happened to the travel and tourism industry in this country. I had a hearing on this subject in the commerce subcommittee that I chair. We know we have provided some loan guarantees to the airlines, and they were very much needed loan guarantees, and I supported them. But, there are a range of other travel and tourism businesses and industries in this country that are in desperate trouble. We propose some loan guarantees to try to be helpful to them during these difficult times. Their businesses are directly tied to the airline industry. When this country shut down the airline industry, we, of course, had a significant impact on the ancillary businesses attached to that industry as well. I want to call attention to this bill today in the hope that my colleagues who are interested in this subject--and I know there are many of them--may consider cosponsoring this legislation.”