FRLA official lauds island tourism representation in Tallahassee
The Florida tourism industry fared well in the 2024 state legislative session, thanks in part to competent representation, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association’s Vice President of Government Relations and general counsel Samantha Padgett told SanCap Chamber of Commerce and FRLA members at the chamber’s business luncheon on March 19 at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers.
“I will try to be as honest and blatant as I can,” she said. “I will say you are very lucky. You are very well-represented in this area of the state. Some of the best advocates for the tourist industry for everything you do every day to serve your community, you have the best representatives.”
Padgett presented a scorecard demonstrating the legislative passage of most FRLA-supported bills related to tourism. They included increased oversee of vacation rental and food delivery platforms to protect resorts, traditional vacation rentals and restaurants.
She commended the approved $80 million funding of Visit Florida and the continuation of tourist development taxes for purposes they are intended.
“It is our responsibility as business owners and as the hospitality industry to tell our elected officials why is it important to do that,” Padgett said. “Why should you take money from general revenue to fund Visit Florida? Why should we protect tourist development tax and maintain funds and dedicate them to the promotion and marketing of tourism? … We are the engine for Florida’s economy … We constantly need to be responsible for educating all our officials.”
“Samantha is the most engaging government relations leader we have,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “She also explained the benefits of a bill loosening employment restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds — a huge help in the current difficult labor market as our island hotels and restaurants reopen. We are finding that allowing young adults to work additional hours is providing opportunities to learn valuable skills and earn money while preparing for life after high school.”
He also recognized elected officials attending the luncheon, presenting Rep. Adam Botana with an encased brick from the Sanibel Lighthouse keepers’ buildings destroyed by Hurricane Ian and recognizing him for his role in supporting the islands’ comeback. Lai also thanked outgoing chamber Board President Calli Johnson for her two years of leadership during storm recovery.