WASHINGTON (March 29, 2023)—U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman issued the following statement on the U.S. Senate’s passage of H.J. Res. 7, a bill to terminate the federal COVID-19 emergency declaration ahead of its May 11 expiration date:

“Today’s bipartisan action by Congress to lift the vaccine requirement for travel to the U.S. eases a significant entry barrier for many global travelers that will move our country forward.

“To further increase global competitiveness, the Biden administration must set a goal to reduce wait times to 21 days for U.S. visitor visas, which still exceed a year in our top 10 visa-requiring markets.

“Together, these policies can help achieve the Commerce Department’s goal of welcoming 90 million visitors annually by 2027. U.S. Travel Association extends its appreciation to Congress and urges President Biden to support the legislation.”

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the $1.2 trillion travel industry, an essential contributor to our nation’s economy and success. U.S. Travel produces programs and insights and advocates for policies to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for information and recovery-related data.

SOURCE U.S. Travel Association