Hospitality Industry’s Economic and Workforce Challenges Highlighted in AHLA CEO’s Testimony

Rosanna Maietta, the President and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and Workforce. Maietta’s presentation focused on the hospitality industry’s substantial economic contributions, ongoing workforce recovery, and regulatory challenges.

Commencing her testimony, Maietta emphasized the crucial role of the hotel industry in job creation. According to her, one out of every 25 jobs across the nation is supported by U.S. hotels. Furthermore, these establishments contribute nearly $900 billion to the U.S. GDP. She also highlighted the progress made by the industry in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, with employment figures currently standing at about 10% below pre-pandemic levels. However, she cautioned that over 200,000 positions remain vacant, signifying persistent workforce shortages.

In addition to highlighting the industry’s economic contributions, Maietta underscored the potential of the hotel industry to foster fulfilling lifelong careers. She stated, “The hotel industry offers more than just a job. It creates opportunities for satisfying lifelong careers and pathways to a better life.” She further explained that hotels, apart from being mere structures, symbolize upward mobility and the success associated with the American Dream.

Despite the significant strides made in rebuilding the workforce and providing new opportunities for career advancement, Maietta pointed out the economic pressures resulting from inflation, workforce shortages, and overregulation. She affirmed the hospitality sector’s commitment to attracting and retaining talent, investing in workforce development, and creating quality jobs for millions of Americans.

Maietta also pointed out that hotel wages have increased 15% faster than the national average. She noted the expansion of benefits such as flexible scheduling, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement programs by industry employers.

In her testimony, Maietta urged Congress to take several actions to support the hospitality industry. She called for expanding the H-2B seasonal guest worker program to help hotels in peak tourism areas. She also recommended the passage of the Save Local Business Act to protect franchise owners from harmful joint-employer regulations. Finally, she emphasized the need to maintain key tax provisions that enable hotel owners to reinvest in their businesses and workforce.