The bill aims to enhance sustainable tourism promotion in Washington State by amending existing laws and establishing a framework for a self-supported assessment to fund statewide tourism initiatives. It recognizes the significant economic impact of the tourism industry, which generates approximately $23.9 billion annually and supports over 230,000 jobs. The legislation mandates the creation of a tourism self-supported assessment advisory group, tasked with evaluating the feasibility of this funding mechanism and making recommendations to the legislature by November 1, 2025. The advisory group will consist of representatives from various sectors of the tourism industry, ensuring a comprehensive approach to funding tourism promotion.

Key amendments to existing laws include changes to the governance structure of the Washington tourism marketing authority, such as the appointment process for board members and the establishment of an advisory committee. The bill also specifies that all appointments to the board must be for four-year terms and emphasizes the need for diversity among board members. Additionally, it allows the authority to incur expenditures related to the self-supported assessment until June 30, 2026, and outlines the authority's responsibilities in promoting sustainable tourism practices, including a focus on rural tourism and environmental conservation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.384.030
Substitute Bill: 43.384.030, 43.384.050