Pennsylvania DCED Secretary Davin Continues "Jobs that Pay" Tour to Highlight Small Business Support and Economic Impacts of Tourism

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Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development

Jun 19, 2015, 02:26 ET

LIGONIER, Pa., June 19, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Davin today visited with small businesses, local officials, and tourism partners, highlighting Governor Wolf's proposals to support Pennsylvania's small businesses and increase promotional tourism efforts that drive statewide economic impacts.

"Pennsylvania tourism has enormous economic impacts, and limitless potential, with Governor Wolf's plan to support a pro-business climate," said Sec. Davin. "Governor Wolf's proposed increase in funding to support tourism promotion will continue to drive the industry that employs more than 470,000 statewide."

Governor Wolf's 2015-16 budget provides an increase of $2 million to tourism promotion, which is one of the commonwealth's largest industries with $32.9 billion in total economic activity and a 450,000-job impact on the state's economy.

"We are thrilled that the Wolf administration is taking time to recognize the economic impacts that the tourism industry creates," said Julie Donovan, Vice President, Public Relations, Laurel Highland Visitors Bureau. "The Laurel Highlands boast more than 22,000 employed in the industry within our region and we're pleased to have the opportunity to showcase some of the small businesses and attractions that the industry supports."

As a part of today's event Sec. Davin visited various small businesses and tourism sites throughout the Laurel Highlands region, which represents Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties.

Governor Wolf's budget will also provide critical access to capital for small businesses by infusing $100 million into the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority through revenue from the severance tax on gas drilling.

For more information about Governor Wolf's commitment to supporting Jobs that Pay, visit www.pa.gov/jobs-that-pay.

MEDIA CONTACT: Lyndsay Kensinger - 717-783-1132

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development