The American Gaming Association has joined with the U.S. travel industry to oppose the proposed elimination of public-private partnership that promotes the country as a travel destination to foreigners.

President Donald Trump's proposed budget would eliminate funding for Brand USA, which was created in 2011 to market the U.S. as the world's premier travel destination. The program is funded through a $14 fee paid by travelers under the Visa Waiver Program.

In an interview with the industry publication CDC Gaming Reports, AGA CEO Geoff Freeman said the proposed elimination of Brand USA, along with new travel restrictions implemented by the Trump administration, is sending the message that the U.S. does not welcome foreign visitors.

"If there's one thing I've seen so far that has me concerned, it's our message to foreign travelers. These visitors are so critical-not just to Las Vegas, but to every market in which [casinos] do business," Freeman said. http://bit.ly/2scSB6P

AGA is not the only group that is worried. The U.S. Travel Association recently joined with 300 business and other associations in signing a letter urging Congressional leaders to preserve Brand USA.

"Brand USA is an outstanding performer from a (return on investment) standpoint, and hamstringing this successful public-private partnership would be a bad move for our economy," U.S. Travel CEO Roger Dow said. "The value Brand USA adds is simply phenomenal, it's all done without a dime of taxpayer money."

U.S. Travel pointed to an independent analysis that concluded Brand USA's marketing efforts resulted in 4 million additional visitors to the U.S. since its inception. Those visitors accounted for an increase of $14 billion in additional tourist spending. http://bit.ly/2s0Hq1g

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