WHEREAS,  tourism is one of Maine's largest industries, bringing in over 37 million visitors to the State, supporting one out of every 6 jobs and generating over $9 billion per year in tourism-related sales and over $610 million in taxes; and

WHEREAS,  tourism incorporates every size of business, including many small, family-owned and multigenerational businesses; and

WHEREAS,  these businesses provide a broad array of tourism services such as lodging, dining, camps and campgrounds, retail, amusements, guide and tour services, outdoor recreation and cultural and heritage attractions; and

WHEREAS,  the 110,000 tourism workers in Maine are indispensable to the success of this industry and provide the dedicated and exemplary service and hospitality that make Maine the truly unique travel destination that it is; and

WHEREAS,  Maine tourism workers deserve the greatest credit and recognition for the achievements and growth of this industry; now, therefore, be it