In an unexpected move late yesterday, the Florida House released a radical Proposed Committee Substitute (PCS) of HB 1221.  Until yesterday afternoon, the FAA’s objection to the House Bill was the requirement for a county’s Tourism Development Tax (TDT / Bed Tax) to be reauthorized by public referendum every 8 years. 

Yesterday’s PCS would eliminate your county’s Tourist Development Council AND allow counties to use Bed Tax FOR ANY PURPOSE.

Below, (in the interest of time) I’m sharing a message from Robert Skrob (Executive Director, Destinations Florida) to describe this unfortunate circumstance.

Our ask – to contact your State Representative  NOW and oppose PCS for CS/HB 1221.

Please contact me if you have any questions – and THANK YOU for acting NOW.

Bill Lupfer
President/CEO
850-222-2885
lupfer@floridaatractions.org

__________________________________________

Proposal to Eliminate County Tourism Promotion Heard in Two House Committees Today

Yes, you read that correctly.

For weeks, we’ve been sounding the alarm about House Bill 1221 by Representative Monique Miller (R)—a proposal that would force all Tourist Development Taxes (TDTs) to expire every eight years, placing Florida’s tourism economy on a never-ending treadmill of uncertainty.

Now, with less than 24 hours’ notice, an amendment has been filed that takes the threat to a whole new level.

This amendment not only maintains the damaging 8-year sunset provision—it completely eliminates the ability of counties to use TDTs for their intended purpose: promoting tourism.

Instead, 100% of TDT proceeds would be used as a credit against county residents’ property tax bills.

If adopted, this amendment to HB 1221 would:

Abolish all existing uses of Tourist Development Taxes, including:

·        Tourism promotion and advertising

·        Beach renourishment and environmental enhancements

·        Convention centers

·        Professional and spring training sports facilities

·        Dissolve all county Tourist Development Councils

·        Restrict spending of TDT to only existing contracts in force as of January 1, 2025

·        Require counties to reduce their property tax levy starting FY 2026-2027 by the amount of TDT collected

·        Allow tourism promotion agencies to be reauthorized only if funded from non-TDT sources

This is a direct attack on Florida’s tourism industry and the millions of Floridians whose jobs, businesses, and communities rely on visitor spending.

Two Critical Committee Hearings today, Tuesday, April 22 – Your Voice Is Needed!

We expect today’s committee meetings to be the final opportunity for public comment against the dangerous proposals in HB 1221 and HB 7033. 

House State Affairs Committee

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Agenda Item: HB 1221 (Local Option Taxes)
We are AGAINST the amendment: “PCS for CS/HB 1221”

House Budget Committee

3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Agenda Item: HB 7033
We are AGAINST the amendment: “PCS for HB 7033”

 

It’s never been more important for anyone receiving Tourist Development Taxes to communicate immediately to their Senate and House members to the importance of Tourism Promotion Taxes.  Please get the word out to your industry and all partners receiving TDT in your community.

 

Key Talking Points:

1. This Amendment Would Eliminate Florida’s Competitive Advantage.

·        Florida’s economy is built on tourism. TDT fuels marketing efforts that generate more than 2 million jobs and $124 billion in annual visitor spending.

·        Without marketing, Florida loses visitors, loses jobs, and loses tax revenue. Neighboring states will gladly take our place.

2. TDT is Not a Burden on Residents—it’s a Benefit.

·        Visitors pay TDT, not residents. These dollars come from out-of-state guests and are reinvested to attract more.

·        Eliminating TDT uses for marketing means residents will pay more in taxes over time, not less.

3. This Would Devastate Small Counties.

·        Large counties might survive by finding alternative funding—but small, rural counties will lose their only reliable tool to compete for visitors.

·        Some counties rely on TDT for over 30% of their total property tax value. This bill cuts that economic lifeline.

4. Dissolving TDCs Silences Local Voices.

·        TDCs ensure accountability, oversight, and community involvement.

·        This amendment replaces local governance with forced mandates from Tallahassee.

5. The Savings to Residents Are Minimal—The Damage is Massive.

·        The average TDT is a tiny fraction of property tax revenues. (Statewide average: 11.3% of property taxes.)

·        Wiping out TDT will do virtually nothing to reduce property taxes—but it will cost billions in lost economic activity.

6. This is Not a Tax Cut—It’s a Job Killer.

·        TDT is a self-imposed tax by the lodging industry to grow visitation.

·        Every dollar of TDT generates many more dollars in local sales, job creation, and tax revenue.

7. We Don’t Need to Break What’s Working.

·        Florida just celebrated its sixth consecutive record-breaking year in tourism.

·        Now is the time to invest, not abandon, what’s powering our economy.

Every Floridian can identify their Senator and Representative by visiting this page.  

 

I know this is late notice. And, I wish this wasn’t so important. 

  

Thank you for the opportunity to serve this industry. We can win this.  

Robert Skrob

Executive Director

Destinations Florida

The SYTA Youth Foundation which is the philanthropic organization for Student & Youth Travel Association (SYTA) will be holding the SYTA Youth Foundation Golf Classic in Orlando on Monday, October 27, 2025 at the Eagle Creek Golf Club Orlando.  

The SYTA Youth Foundation is currently seeking golfers and promoting the many sponsorship opportunities available for this special tournament taking place this Fall.

Golf Registration includes the Pairings Party on Sunday, October 26, transportation on the day of the event to/from the hotel to the Eagle Creek Golf Club, breakfast, greens fees with cart, and the Luncheon/Awards Ceremony following the Tournament.

Proceeds raised help fund programs and scholarships that provide young people access to many travel experiences that spark curiosity, confidence, cultural awareness, and inspire them to be globally responsible citizens.

Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park, located on US Highway 98 in the heart of Destin, Florida is one of the largest water parks along the beautiful Emerald Coast of Florida.  A top-level Primary Attraction member of the FAA since 2015, this popular water park is open seasonally and features a variety of attractions to delight all members of your family.

Big Kahuna’s Water Park encompasses thrilling water slides, wave pools, as well as a lazy river, and several kid-friendly play zones.  While the Adventure Park offers attractions such as Tropical Mini Golf and the Skycoaster.  Group bookings including special events, private events, buyouts and birthday parties which are a mainstay of this popular, action-packed attraction. 

Your visit to Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park is not complete until you take advantage of the Park’s in-park dining options located in the Island Time Café including Pizza Pizza, The Hideaway, and the Sand Bar.

Annual Outlook on the Attractions Industry

PGAV's Voice of the Visitor 2025 is celebrating a significant milestone - its 10th edition! Throughout the past decade, the travel and attractions industry has undergone remarkable transformations, yet the core motivations driving travel have remained constant. People continue to seek opportunities to explore new destinations, connect with loved ones, and create lasting memories.

PGAV’s research provides insists into the dynamism of the attraction industry’s constant endeavor – to meet and exceed the expectations of our guests.  Voice of the Visitor 2025 shines a light on what drives our guests to our gates and how we can adapt to provide memorable experiences to those who pass through or gates.

PGAV Destinations is a long-time member and supporter of the Florida Attractions Association through their participation in conferences, speaking in educational sessions, event sponsorships and sharing of research.  PGAV’s Vice President Emily Howard is the FAA’s Associate Member of the Year in 2016.

Download Voice of the Visitor 2025

During Florida Tourism Day, VISIT FLORIDA unveiled a series of powerful infographics that illustrate the collaborative efforts between VISIT FLORIDA and Florida's tourism industry to generate positive impacts throughout the state.

These infographics provide comprehensive data at the statewide, regional, and county levels, accompanied by examples of innovative marketing strategies employed to promote each area. By showcasing VISIT FLORIDA's success in positioning the state as the premier vacation destination, these tools shed light on both well-known and lesser-known destinations.

Delegates from Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and tourism businesses in Florida utilized these infographics during their legislative meetings to inform their Senators and Representatives about the positive influence of Florida's tourism industry on communities statewide.

Florida Attractions Association Members are encouraged to use your county’s infographic when discussing the impact your business and tourism makes on your county.

In a groundbreaking study conducted by Career Source Central Florida, a comprehensive analysis of hospitality careers in the state has been released under the title "How Florida Hospitality Jobs Stack Up: A Surprising Comparison." This study challenges the prevailing belief that hospitality jobs are low-wage positions and instead highlights the potential for real career growth and financial success within the industry.

The research delves into various aspects of workforce development, talent gaps, and the future of the workplace, shedding light on the top skills required for success in 2025. Key takeaways from the study include the importance of showcasing the potential for higher pay and advancement in hospitality careers, bridging talent gaps through training programs, and fostering early career development initiatives in schools.

Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need to broaden the conversation about hospitality jobs to encompass a wide range of roles, from front desk staff to accountants and technicians. By promoting inclusivity and investing in the training and development of both experienced and younger workers, communities can thrive and the industry can continue to grow and evolve.

We commend Career Source Florida for challenging outdated narratives and charting a new course for the future of the state's workforce. This study serves as a valuable resource for individuals considering a career in hospitality and for employers seeking to attract and retain top talent in the industry.

Download -  How Florida Hospitality Jobs Stack Up: A Surprising Comparison

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) invites you to join a two-hour security webinar to enhance your organization’s resilience in case of an active shooter incident.

Click here for details.

1. How long have you been in the attractions industry? I have worked in the attractions industry for around 15 years.

2. What is your favorite job you’ve had in the industry and why? Believe it or not my favorite job in the industry was when I worked in the custodial department at Disney World. I loved the freedom to walk my assigned area throughout my shift and talk to guests all day. It was so fun to watch people enjoy their vacation and to see how happy they were to be at Disney!

3. What is the most rewarding aspect of working in/for the attraction industry? I love watching guests from all around the world have fun! Seeing guests smile, laugh, and enjoy their time at an attraction is priceless!

4. What do you enjoy doing in your leisure time? Eating out, watching movies and football, and hanging out with my family!

5. Aside from Florida, what is your dream vacation destination and why? Anywhere there are mountains and fall! Yellowstone National Park is one of my favorite places on the planet because you can fish, hike, raft, and see incredible wildlife.

Rex Lumber Company, founded in 1946, supplies a variety of industries with specialty hardwood and softwood lumber. The company offers wholesale lumber delivery and has an entire fleet of trucks capable of delivering all up and down the east coast of the United States including Florida.   In addition, the company provides millwork services including ripping, planing, gluing, precision cut-to-length, end matching, dentil and embossing, priming, and finishing.  

Rex Lumber Company joined the Florida Attractions Association in 2020 as a Supplier Associate member and their sales representative, Bruce Smith has been very active in attending the FAA Annual Conferences.   With corporate headquarters in Acton, Massachusetts, Rex Lumber continues to supply many of our FAA Attractions with the finest lumber products.