The Florida Legislature adjourned Sine Die on June 16, 2025, after a contentious and extended session lasting 105 days. Tensions between House Speaker Danny Perez and Governor Ron DeSantis led to disputes over illegal immigration enforcement, tax cuts, and spending, delaying legislative progress. The Legislature failed to complete its only constitutional obligation—passing the state budget—within the regular 60-day session, prompting an extension through June 6 via House Concurrent Resolution 1631, limiting consideration to 16 key bills including the budget and tax package.

Although an initial budget agreement was reached on May 2, disagreements resurfaced after Governor DeSantis rejected the House’s proposed sales tax cuts, causing the plan to unravel. A second extension, House Concurrent Resolution 1635, prolonged the session to June 18 to avoid a government shutdown.

Contentious bills such as SB 110 (Rural Renaissance) and HB 7033 (which proposed eliminating Tourist Development Councils and overhauling local bed tax use) were excluded. However, the final tax package (HB 7031) allowed for expanded uses of Tourist Development Taxes in fiscally constrained coastal counties and lifeguard training.

Significant progress was made the week of June 9, culminating in the release of the budget conference report on June 13. The Legislature approved a $115.1 billion budget—$500 million less than the Governor’s proposal—on June 16, following the required 72-hour review period. The budget now awaits Governor DeSantis’ review and possible line-item vetoes. It includes $80 million for VISIT FLORIDA and $20.8 million for cultural and museum grants.

Click here to view the 2025 FAA Legislative Session Summary

The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation (FASF) has awarded grants to four Florida Attractions Association (FAA) member businesses to support their internal professional development programs. These grants are part of the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders within Florida’s attractions industry.

Each year, FASF—an FAA-established 501(c)(3) nonprofit—reviews grant applications from member businesses seeking to enhance their internal training and leadership development initiatives. In addition to these grants, FASF provides scholarships to post-secondary students pursuing careers in hospitality and tourism-related fields.

Thanks to the continued generosity of FAA members, the Foundation has awarded more than $121,000 since its founding in 2014. This includes support for 84 student scholarship recipients and 8 FAA member businesses through professional development grants.

Grants are awarded exclusively to FAA member businesses, reinforcing the industry's investment in its people and future.

IMAG History & Science Center

The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation has awarded a $2,500 grant to the IMAG History & Science Center in support of staff participation in the 2026 Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators (AALSO) Symposium and Workshop. This vital training initiative aims to enhance workforce capacity through professional development, equipping IMAG’s aquatic operations team with advanced knowledge in life support system (LSS) technologies. The symposium offers hands-on workshops, certification opportunities, and technical presentations on cutting-edge filtration, sterilization, and water quality management techniques.

Through this experience, IMAG staff will earn AALSO Level II certifications, expand their technical expertise, and strengthen operational efficiency. The grant will help cover registration, travel, lodging, and training materials for one of three participating aquatics team members. By investing in staff education, IMAG is not only improving animal care and exhibit quality but also enriching the overall guest experience—advancing its mission and contributing to excellence within Florida’s attractions industry.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation has awarded a $2,500 grant to ZooTampa at Lowry Park to support professional development for its private events team. The funding will enable three team members to attend the 2025 Florida Festivals & Events Association (FFEA) Annual Convention & Expo, a three-day event focused on festival production, marketing, and event logistics. As a newly formed group with less than two years of experience in event management, this opportunity will allow the team to gain vital insights, learn best practices, and refine their skills.

Attendees will explore topics such as social media marketing, event logistics, and emerging technologies—all aimed at enhancing ZooTampa’s private events. The grant will cover registration, travel, and lodging costs. By bringing back knowledge to share with the full 15-member department, the team will elevate the zoo’s event offerings, boost guest satisfaction, and support ZooTampa’s mission to deliver exceptional experiences to its visitors.

Sawgrass Recreation Park

Sawgrass Recreation Park has been awarded a $2,500 grant from the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation to support the professional development of its head animal curator. The funding will enable participation in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) “Creating Successful Exhibits” course in 2026. This intensive program focuses on planning, designing, and fabricating impactful and sustainable animal habitats. It includes hands-on training in exhibit development, budgeting, timeline construction, and the integration of external consultants.

While the course does not provide formal certification, it will equip Sawgrass Recreation Park with critical skills for the complete redesign of its animal exhibit area. The new exhibits will emphasize hands-on learning and inclusivity for visitors with special needs or sensory challenges. Knowledge gained will be shared with the entire animal care and engineering teams, ensuring long-term benefits. This grant helps further the park’s mission of education, conservation, and accessible, engaging experiences for all guests.

Florida Air Museum

The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation has awarded a $1,760 grant to the Florida Air Museum to support participation in the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Educational Program. This comprehensive training initiative will empower museum staff with cutting-edge knowledge and professional development opportunities tailored to the attractions industry. Covering key topics such as cybersecurity awareness, immersive experience design, and instructional training development, the program combines online learning, on-the-job training, and in-person experiences at IAAPA expos and EDUTours.

Participants also gain access to mentorship programs and the IAAPA Common Body of Knowledge framework, ensuring alignment with industry standards. The grant fully covers program costs and will lead to IAAPA certification—a credential validating professional expertise in areas like operations, safety, marketing, and HR. This investment supports the Florida Air Museum’s mission to deliver top-tier visitor experiences and ensures continued innovation and excellence in the state's dynamic attractions industry.

The Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation (FASF) proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 Scholarship Program during the Florida Attractions Annual Conference in Ponte Vedra Beach on June 9.

Established in 2014 by the Florida Attractions Association (FAA) and its Board of Directors, the Foundation was created to support the future of Florida’s tourism workforce by providing financial assistance to post-secondary students pursuing careers in hospitality-related fields.

FASF, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, also funds professional development opportunities for industry leaders and awards grants to FAA member businesses to support internal training initiatives.

Thanks to the generous support of FAA members, the Foundation has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships and grants since its inception. Scholarships are available exclusively to employees of FAA member businesses and their dependents; grants are awarded to FAA member businesses.

William (Quin) Anderson

William "Quin" Anderson has received a scholarship from the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation in recognition of his dedication to the attractions industry and academic excellence. A Business Management major with a 3.56 GPA, Quin currently works at ZooTampa and has completed over 200 credit hours in hospitality-related coursework.

His passion for guest experience and leadership is evident in his active involvement with organizations like the President’s Leadership Fellows and Collegiate Leadership Tampa Bay. Quin also serves as an IAAPA Show Ambassador, where he was honored as Ambassador of the Year.

Quin’s short-term goal is to continue building his expertise in the attractions industry and secure a full-time role upon graduation in 2025. Long-term, he aspires to launch his own attraction business and mentor future professionals. With his strong foundation and vision, Quin is poised to make a lasting impact in Florida’s tourism landscape.

Maria Dezubiria

Chad Middleton Memorial Scholarship

Maria Dezubiria has been awarded a scholarship from the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation in recognition of her outstanding academic and professional accomplishments. A graduate of Hospitality Management with Cum Laude honors, Maria is currently pursuing a Master’s in Event Leadership while maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. She brings hands-on experience from two of the world’s top entertainment companies—Universal Orlando, where she works in Human Resources Operations, and The Walt Disney Company, where she serves as a professional intern and member of a Local Diversity Action Team.

Maria’s short-term goal is to step into a leadership role in event operations, where she can apply her passion for immersive storytelling and guest experience. Long-term, she aspires to become a senior leader in event strategy at Disney or Universal, crafting innovative, inclusive events that inspire and delight. Maria’s drive and dedication mark her as a rising star in Florida’s attractions and events industry.

Greer Gaspard

Greer Gaspard, an ambitious and high-achieving student, has received a Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation award. Pursuing a double major in Accounting and Biology, Greer maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA and brings a unique blend of business and science to the future of zoological management. As a dependent of a SeaWorld Orlando employee, Greer exemplifies a strong connection to Florida’s attractions industry.

Greer is a published author and active community member, serving as a figure skating coach, tutor, and student member of the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association. Her long-term vision is to become CFO and eventually CEO of a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife sanctuary, where she can combine financial leadership with a passion for conservation.

This scholarship recognizes Greer’s dedication to academic excellence and her commitment to advancing wildlife care and education. Her future promises to make a lasting impact in Florida’s zoological community.

Ashley Smith

Barbara Kenney Honorary Scholarship

Ashley Smith, a standout student at the University of Central Florida, has received a prestigious scholarship from the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation. A first-generation college student majoring in Marketing and Finance, Ashley has demonstrated exceptional dedication through her 550 internship hours at Universal Orlando Resort. Her work with the Digital & Technology team has fueled her passion for the hospitality and travel industry.

In addition to her academic achievements and 3.41 GPA, Ashley’s leadership shines through her involvement in organizations like Collegiate DECA and College of Business Ambassadors. She’s also earned accolades from Coca-Cola, Nestlé, and DECA. This summer, she will continue her growth as a Nestlé sales intern and Coca-Cola campus ambassador.

Ashley plans to pursue a full-time marketing or sales role at Universal Destinations and Experiences after graduation, with long-term goals of leadership in the attractions industry. Her story embodies the future of Florida tourism and hospitality.

Jaedyn Sobota

Arthur Hertz Memorial Scholarship

Jaedyn Sobota, a dedicated Hospitality Management student at the University of Central Florida, has received a prestigious scholarship from the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation. A valued team member at Universal Orlando Resort, Jaedyn has already made a strong impression, earning the "Rookie Caretaker of the Year" award within just five months of joining the Attractions team.

With a 3.6 GPA and consistent recognition on the Dean’s List, she exemplifies both academic and professional excellence. Jaedyn is actively involved on campus as Vice President of UCF’s Improv Academy and a member of its audition-only House and Musical Improv teams. Her short-term goals include continued academic success and refining her career path within the hospitality industry. Long-term, she aspires to a leadership role at Universal, driven by her passion for theme park operations and guest service. Jaedyn’s selection highlights her promise as a future leader in Florida’s vibrant attractions industry.

About the Three Named Scholarships

Chad Middleton Memorial Scholarship

We lost our friend Chad Michael Middleton in a tragic accident in 2018. A third-generation leader at FPIS Brochure Distribution, founded by his grandmother and one of FAA’s first associate members, Chad was known for his Christian values, love for his wife and four sons, and commitment to excellence.

Respected for his professionalism and kindness, Chad was a unifying presence and a gentle peacemaker. His legacy continues through the lasting impact he made at FPIS and the many lives he touched.

The Chad Middleton Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Rick Soverns family of Sawgrass Recreation Park, honors a cherished friend and a life lived with purpose.

Barbara Kenney Honorary Scholarship

Ten years ago, Barbara Kenney of Kenney Communications provided the seed funding that launched the Florida Attractions Scholarship Foundation. Her generous gift enabled the Foundation to begin awarding scholarships to students pursuing careers in attractions and tourism.

Barbara, founder and CEO of Kenney Communications based in Orlando, has over 40 years of experience in strategic communications. Her company was among the FAA’s first associate members, and she was named FAA Associate Member of the Year in 1997.

Arthur Hertz Memorial Scholarship

Arthur Hertz, born in Brooklyn, New York, became a true Miamian after moving there at age 13. He joined Wometco Enterprises in 1955, learning the tourism industry from the ground up. He played a key role in Wometco’s acquisition of the Miami Seaquarium and helped manage other Florida attractions like the Citrus Tower and Conch Tour Train.

A champion for tourism, Arthur served on the board of the Greater Miami CVB, helped create VISIT FLORIDA, and later chaired its board. Inducted into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame in 2004, Arthur was also a generous philanthropist. In his memory, his family proudly funds the Arthur Hertz Memorial Scholarship.

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