A bipartisan deal was announced on Dec. 10 that would set spending levels for the federal government for two years and partially replace unpopular spending cuts of the sequester with other savings. The negotiations were led by House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan, R-Wis., and Senate Budget Chairwoman Patty Murray, D-Wash.
President Obama called the deal a “good first step” and a “balanced” plan that includes compromises from both parties.
The hotel industry is urging Congress to pass the dead to avoid another government shutdown. During the October shutdown, hoteliers across the country lost more than $115.2 million in economic activity, American workers lost $3.2 billion in collective income, and communities and businesses that rely on tourism lost more than $1.2 billion in visitor spending.
“Today’s announcement of a budget deal is a positive step in providing the fiscal certainty necessary to allow the lodging industry to continue to grow,” said Katherine Lugar, AH&LA president and CEO. “October’s 16-day government shutdown was a major red flag on the need for meaningful, long-term solutions to the fiscal problems that continue to hamper the economy. Despite our industry’s strength as a driver of jobs and 12 straight quarters of growth, it cannot sustain another loss in the hundreds of millions of dollars and still continue its positive momentum.”
Lugar continued, “Chairmen Ryan and Murray and the members of the conference committee have taken important action in reaching an agreement and giving our industry cause for optimism as we move into 2014. Hoteliers across the country who have a strong economic presence in every state and congressional district urge the House of Representatives and Senate to quickly approve this deal. We are hopeful Congress and the Administration build on today’s agreement and continue efforts to provide the long-term fiscal security that allows for a pro-growth environment where the lodging industry can thrive.”
Photo credit: U.S. Capitol Building via Bigstock
