ACR 65: California Tourism Month.

WHEREAS, Tourism has been a consistent driver of California’s economy and workforce; and

WHEREAS, A robust travel industry provides significant economic benefits for California, generating more than $157,300,000,000 in visitor spending in 2024, growing by 3 percent from 2023; and

WHEREAS, Visitor spending grew in 50 out of 58 California counties; in comparison, in 2023, 41 out of 58 counties experienced growth; and

WHEREAS, Travel has been the foundation of a healthy workforce, serving as one of the largest private-sector employers in California, adding 23,900 new jobs, and supporting a total of 1,165,760 jobs in 2024; and

WHEREAS, Spending by travelers benefits all Californians, generating $12,600,000,000 in state and local tax revenue in 2024 to support essential public services and programs; and

WHEREAS, Travel and tourism-dependent businesses and organizations, 89 percent of which are small businesses, are responsible for welcoming visitors from all around the world to explore California and all our state has to offer; and

WHEREAS, Community sentiment research for 2024 showed a majority of Californians recognize tourism’s positive impact on tax revenue generation, job creation, and enhanced quality of life; and

WHEREAS, Visit California has collected scientific research on the mental health benefits of play, and now inspires global visitors to embrace California as the ultimate playground; and

WHEREAS, Despite global uncertainty, the Golden State remains the most welcoming destination in the country, where all are respected no matter their race, religion, sexuality, gender, physical or mental ability, or beliefs; and

WHEREAS, California’s strength lies in its diversity, and the state is committed to building a more inclusive and unified travel community for its residents and visitors alike; and

WHEREAS, The Legislature in 2016 declared every May as California Tourism Month to celebrate the positive economic impact of tourism in California; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the month of May 2025 shall be reaffirmed as California Tourism Month and the Legislature urges the citizens of this great state to support tourism and local businesses by traveling in the state as an act of civic pride; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.