Schatz to Be Honored with Distinguished Travel Champion Award

United States Senator Brian Schatz. United State Senate photo.

Late last month, Senator Brian Schatz was named a recipient of the U.S. Travel Association’s Distinguished Travel Champion Award.

Senator Schatz was named for the honor for his “exceptional leadership in advancing policies that strengthen travel to and within America.”

Among the leadership actions was Senator Schatz’ push for the Jobs Originated Through Launching Travel, or JOLT Act, of 2015.

“Senator Schatz truly knows the vital role our industry plays in America’s economic health,” said U.S. Travel Association President and Chief Executive Office Roger Dow. “He has clearly demonstrated his commitment to keeping travel in our country strong through his leadership on crucial pieces of legislation. We are privileged to honor him and other Distinguished Travel Champions for their work, and hope that other political and government decision-makers will follow his lead in advocating for travel within their own districts, states, chambers and agencies.”

On March 16, Senator Schatz will be presented the award at the association’s Destination Capitol Hill. The event is a travel and tourism industry fly-in that’s dedicated to educating policymakers about the power of travel, as well as providing a forum for travel leaders to meet in Washington with Congress members.

Senator Schatz joins others recipients, including Nevada Senator Dean Heller, Florida Representative David Jolly, Nevada Representative Dina Titus, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Deputy Commissioner Kevin McAleenan.

“I want to thank the U.S. Travel Association for this award and for their dedication to improving travel opportunities to and within our country,” said Senator Schatz. “A strong and dynamic travel industry supports small businesses, creates jobs and helps grow our economy. I look forward to continue working with the U.S. Travel Association to strengthen travel to the United States, and promote Hawai’i as a premier visitor destination.”