The American Hotel & Lodging Association released a ‘Roadmap to Recovery’ as it warns the hotel industry is on the ‘brink of collapse.’
It is urging Congress to provide immediate assistance to help businesses stay afloat.
Citing Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the hospitality and leisure industry labor market has shrunk by 7.7 million jobs, and says the impact is nine times worse than after 9/11.
"The hospitality industry is in a fight for survival. We are urging Congress to do more to help the hotel industry so that our small business hotel operators can keep the lights on and retain and rehire employees," said Chip Rogers, president and CEO of AHLA.
According to a recent survey, 80% of AHLA members have laid off or furloughed workers.
AHLA called on Congress to extend the Paycheck Protection Program and the Employee Retention Credit so hotels can retain and rehire workers.
It should also offer tax credits for cleaning equipment and personal protective equipment, and introduce a new, temporary travel tax credit to encourage more Americans to travel.
"While the hotel industry was one of the first affected by the pandemic, we have collectively stepped up to serve our communities. We need Congress to continue to prioritize the industries and employees most affected by the crisis, so we can retain and rehire the people who power our industry," Rogers added.
