WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. travel industry welcomed a major legislative development on Wednesday as lawmakers introduced the VISIT USA Act, a bipartisan bill designed to restore full funding for Brand USA, America’s official destination marketing organization.

The act ensures that Brand USA has the resources needed to promote the United States in key global markets, attract international visitors and fully leverage the economic opportunities of an unprecedented decade of major global events. These include the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the America 250 commemoration, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

“The VISIT USA Act is a smart, bipartisan fix that ensures America competes on the global stage,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to welcome the world, but that success depends on Brand USA having the resources to do its job. Congress must act now to restore funding and showcase the very best of America.”

Importantly, the bill restores Brand USA’s funding without using U.S. taxpayer dollars, relying instead on existing mechanisms designed to support the nation’s tourism competitiveness.

U.S. Travel expressed gratitude to the bill’s sponsors: Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Kathy Castor (D-FL).

According to industry projections, the upcoming global events could attract nearly 40 million international visitors and generate more than $100 billion in economic impact. Restoring full funding for Brand USA is considered critical to meeting this moment and strengthening the U.S. economy through international travel.