ABA's implores Congress, Administration to end shutdown

Peter Pantuso, president and CEO of the American Bus Association (ABA) — representing numerous small businesses in the motorcoach, travel and tourism industry — released the following statement on the continuation of the government shutdown after Thursday’s vote.

“Another opportunity was missed today when Congress failed to pass legislation through both chambers to reopen the federal government and bring an end to the longest and costliest shutdown in our nation’s history.

“ABA is currently hosting the largest gathering of domestic group tour and travel professionals at its annual trade show in Louisville, Kentucky. One unexpected theme of this year’s show is surviving the hardships caused by this continued government shutdown.

“According to data from the U.S. Travel Association, in 2017 travel generated $2.4 trillion for the U.S. economy and supported 15.6 million jobs. The closure of American icons, such as national parks and our nation’s capital, is having consequences that may take years to repair. It is not just the motorcoach and tour companies and the attractions that are feeling the effects, but also the local economies that rely on tourism such as hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and other companies that cater to visitors. This shutdown is not only bad for business it is bad for America.

“The American Bus Association again calls on Congress and the Administration to come together and end this needless shutdown immediately. With each passing day, this situation grows more dire.”