WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Marsha Blackburn celebrated the Senate passage of their bipartisan American Music Tourism Act, which would support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors. The bill now awaits passage from the House of Representatives before being signed into law by President Biden.
“Colorado’s vibrant music scene attracts artists and fans from around the world,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bipartisan bill will help our local music venues thrive and expand.”
“Tennesseans know a thing or two about the positive impact that music tourism has on the economy and culture,” said Blackburn. “The Volunteer State is proud to be home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to enjoy – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. This bipartisan legislation promotes music tourism’s fast-growing industry, and I’m pleased the Senate took action to ensure fans from all over the world can celebrate the rich history of music for generations to come.”
Music tourism is projected to bring in over $11.3 billion in revenue nationwide by 2032. The United States boasts one of the world’s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year and benefits from international interest in music tourism.
Specifically, the bipartisan legislation would:
- Require the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors.
- Require a report to Congress on the findings and achievements of the Assistant Secretary’s efforts to promote travel and tourism.
This legislation is supported by the Colorado Creative Industries Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, Denver Arts & Venues, the Recording Academy, the Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, the National Independent Venues Association, the Nashville Songwriters Association International, Colorado Music Hall of Fame, Colorado Chamber Players, Youth on Record, Underground Music Showcase, Jazz Aspen Snowmass, Swallow Hill Music, and eTown Music.
Full text available HERE.
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