American Hotel & Lodging Association Advocates for Key Tax and Workforce Provisions to Drive U.S. Hospitality Industry Growth
(IN SHORT) American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) members recently gathered in Washington, D.C., to engage with lawmakers on critical legislative priorities that are crucial for the future growth of the U.S. hospitality industry. Over 250 AHLA members met with both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to discuss pressing issues, including tax provisions, workforce development, and regulatory challenges. Key priorities discussed included the permanent establishment of the Small Business Tax Deduction, the extension of Bonus Depreciation, and the preservation of the Like-Kind Exchange, all aimed at reducing operating costs and improving business sustainability. In addition, AHLA members advocated for expanding workforce opportunities by adjusting the H-2B visa cap and protecting the franchise model, which supports a significant portion of the U.S. hotel industry. AHLA also recognized several lawmakers with its “Spirit of Hospitality Award” for their ongoing support of the travel and tourism sector, further emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach in addressing the industry’s needs. These efforts reflect AHLA’s broader commitment to driving economic growth, supporting small business hoteliers, and ensuring the sector remains competitive in the global marketplace.
(PRESS RELEASE) WASHINGTON, 2025-May-16 — /Travel PR News/ — American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) members, the leading voice of the U.S. hotel industry, recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with congressional leaders and advocate for vital legislative priorities crucial for the growth of the hospitality sector. Over 250 AHLA members held meetings with lawmakers in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives during ongoing Budget Reconciliation and tax negotiations.
“AHLA members flooded Congressional offices this week to share their on-the-ground insights and advocate for legislation to bolster the hotel industry,” said Rosanna Maietta, AHLA President & CEO. “Through these meetings, we successfully conveyed the implications of tax, trade, and labor policies that lawmakers are considering. It’s clear that a strong tourism sector is top of mind for both Congress and the Administration.”
AHLA members shared concerns about several tax and trade policies affecting hotel operating costs and travel demand. Legislative priorities include critical provisions within the House Ways & Means Committee’s tax portion of the Budget Reconciliation bill, aimed at protecting small businesses and ensuring the continued growth of the industry. These provisions include:
- Making the Small Business Tax Deduction permanent
- Extending Bonus Depreciation
- Preserving the Like-Kind Exchange
- Reinstating Expanded Business Interest Deductibility
- Launching a second round of Opportunity Zones
- “No Tax on Tips” to ensure hotel employees keep more of their hard-earned income
In addition, AHLA members advocated for measures to expand and upskill the hospitality workforce, including adjusting the H-2B visa program cap to meet labor needs and protecting the franchise model, which supports over half of all U.S. hotels and provides 2.8 million jobs.
Recognition for Policymakers Supporting the Hospitality Industry
During the “fly-in,” AHLA recognized several policymakers with the “Spirit of Hospitality Award” for their dedication to supporting the travel and tourism industry. Award recipients included:
- Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL)
- Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
- Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05)
- National Labor Relations Board Chair Marvin Kaplan
- Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL) said, “There’s no state that appreciates the hotel industry as much as Florida. The economic impact of this industry cannot be overstated.”
- Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Chairman of the House Education & Workforce Committee, commented, “It was an honor to receive the Spirit of Hospitality Award from AHLA, which plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism across the country. We must work together to roll back burdensome regulations like the joint employer rule, which limits job creation and entrepreneurship. Strengthening workforce development efforts is crucial to meet the demand for skilled workers in the travel and tourism industry.”
AHLA’s Commitment to Industry Growth
AHLA’s advocacy efforts reflect the importance of ongoing legislative support to protect small business hoteliers and ensure continued industry growth. The Association’s policy priorities, as outlined in its 2025 Policy Guide, emphasize creating a competitive environment for the sector, expanding workforce opportunities, and advocating for tax reforms that benefit both businesses and employees.
MEDIA CONTACT:
media@ahla.com
SOURCE: AHLA
