The bill amends the Michigan Tourism Policy Act by making significant changes to the structure and responsibilities of the Michigan Travel Commission and the Travel Bureau. It establishes the Michigan Travel Commission within the Department of Treasury, transferring all statutory authority and responsibilities related to budgeting, procurement, personnel, and management from other state entities to the commission. The commission will consist of 13 members appointed by the governor, with a requirement that at least 8 members must be from the private sector and experienced in the travel, tourism, and recreation industry. The bill also specifies that members must serve a term of 4 years, with a limit of 2 full terms, and outlines the process for filling vacancies and the reimbursement of expenses.

Additionally, the bill creates the Travel Bureau within the Department of Treasury, which will be responsible for marketing Michigan as a travel destination and ensuring that promotional efforts align with the state's tourism goals. The Travel Bureau is tasked with documenting the benefits of promotional efforts, withholding funds for ineffective initiatives, and facilitating travel within the state. The amendments also emphasize the importance of public meetings and compliance with the Open Meetings Act, as well as the Freedom of Information Act for documents related to the commission's functions.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 2.102