WASHINGTON—American Resort & Lodging Affiliation (AHLA) President and CEO Rosanna Maietta testified earlier than the U.S. Home of Representatives Committee on Schooling and Workforce, emphasizing the hospitality trade’s financial contributions, workforce restoration, and regulatory challenges.
Maietta highlighted the lodge trade’s function in job creation, noting that U.S. lodges assist one in each 25 jobs nationwide and contribute almost $900 billion to U.S. GDP. She underscored the strides the trade has made for the reason that COVID-19 pandemic, with employment almost 10 % beneath pre-pandemic ranges. But over 200,000 positions nonetheless must be stuffed and workforce shortages persist.
“The lodge trade gives greater than only a job. It creates alternatives for fulfilling lifelong careers and pathways to accessing a greater life—the place, no matter background or circumstances, lodge associates can obtain prosperity by way of perseverance and a dedication to service,” stated Maietta. “Probably the most distinguished leaders in our trade, from basic managers to house owners to model CEOs, can recall beginning on property washing dishes, making beds, and serving to company. In each nook of America, from metropolis facilities and interstate exits, to roadside sights, and unique locations, lodges are extra than simply buildings—they’re symbols of upward mobility and the success that comes with reaching the American Dream.”
Maietta stated, “Whereas we’ve got made important strides in rebuilding the workforce and offering new alternatives for profession development, we proceed to face financial pressures from inflation, workforce shortages, and overregulation. The hospitality sector stays dedicated to attracting and retaining expertise, investing in workforce growth, and creating good jobs for hundreds of thousands of Individuals.”
Maietta famous that lodge wages have elevated greater than 15 % quicker than the nationwide common, and that employers are increasing advantages akin to versatile scheduling, tuition reimbursement, and profession development applications.
Moreover, Maietta urged Congress to:
- Increase the H-2B seasonal visitor employee program to assist lodges in peak tourism areas.
- Cross the Save Native Enterprise Act to guard franchise house owners from dangerous joint-employer rules.
- Keep key tax provisions that allow lodge house owners to reinvest of their companies and workforce.
