Protecting America’s tourism economy by connecting industry voices with policymakers
Launched in April 2026, the U.S. Tourism Economy Alliance (USTEA) is a collection of diverse organizations from across the country that play a vital role in their local and state tourism economies. Together we provide a unified voice for an industry that supports communities, creates jobs, and drives economic growth nationwide.
Our mission is to protect one of America’s most important economic engines: travel and tourism. We bring together stakeholders from across the industry to help lawmakers understand tourism’s critical role in local economies and the unintended consequences policies can have on the businesses, workers, and destinations that depend on it.
From small businesses and local attractions to airports and local hospitality leaders, USTEA advocates for the institutions and individuals that define the character and vitality of America’s cities and towns. Travel creates lifelong memories, strengthens communities, and supports millions of livelihoods.
USTEA was born out of urgency. From proposals that threaten credit card rewards programs to restrictions on consumer access to credit, legislative and regulatory actions have significant downstream effects on local economies and the jobs supported by tourism. USTEA exists to give a voice to travelers, businesses, workers, and communities during these debates.