Governor Supports Increased Tourism Funding

Release Date: Jan 24, 2013

Governor Mark Dayton’s FY 14/15 biennial budget recommendation includes a significant increase in the budget for Explore Minnesota Tourism. The Governor has recommended a general fund budget of roughly $16 million for each of the next two fiscal years. Explore Minnesota’s existing budget is $8.7 million per fiscal year. This represents an 86% increase or an additional $7.5 million per year. These funding amounts include the same level funding for the Minnesota Film and TV Board operations.

Tourism Funding would be used to significantly increase marketing, generate jobs and bring new taxes and revenue to Minnesota. It would also allow Minnesota to compete with other states for travelers. The Governor recommends expanded marketing so that tourism and related economic activity within the state increases. The existing tax on car rentals is proposed to go 6.2% to 9.05% to cover the increase.

While there will be many further discussions and legislative hearings regarding the above, this proposal represents a significant investment in tourism. We would like to extend our gratitude to the Governor for his recognition of our industry and his willingness to step up efforts to promote the diverse face of tourism across this great state.