Hickenlooper, Blackburn Cheer Committee Passage of Their Bipartisan Music Tourism Bill

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Marsha Blackburn celebrated the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passage of their bipartisan American Music Tourism Act, which would support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for a full vote.

"Coloradans are back to filling big event spaces and enjoying good music. But it's up to us to support our local venues," said Hickenlooper. "Our bipartisan American Music Tourism Act is one step closer to doing so."

"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 ensures 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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