56th Assembly District Update: August 4, 2023

Our tourism industry has a $23.7 billion impact on the State of Wisconsin.  It’s one of our top economic drivers, providing over 174,000 full and part time jobs.  In 2022, we had over 110 million tourist visits to our state.

In outdoor recreation alone, there are over 90,000 jobs and this part of the tourism industry generates $8.7 billion in revenue.

Knowing how important tourism is to our state, Assembly Republicans provided a boost for tourism in the state budget, including:

–           A one-time boost of $20 million in marketing funds, along with a bump in base marketing funding of $1 million annually – a 7.5% increase.  These funds help WI remain competitive among our neighboring states as we compete for visitors

–           $10 million for an Opportunity Attraction and Promotion Fund to attract major events to our state and bringing more visitors to Wisconsin

–           Extending the Office of Outdoor Recreation for two more years so it can continue the work it has done to connect businesses within the industry and connect visitors to Wisconsin’s outdoor opportunities

–           Significant investments in our state parks, which are a major tourist draw, with over $20 million for park upgrades, maintenance and development projects, campsite electrification, and amenities

Click here to get your free Wisconsin Travel Guide!

It’s only August, but the 2023 Capitol Christmas ornaments are already available for sale at the State Capitol Rotunda Information Desk for $20.  The 2023 Christmas ornaments feature the 40th anniversary of the Concerts on the Square.  The information desk also has the 2022 and 2012 ornaments available for $20 and $15 respectively.

Winnebago County Fair
Oshkosh
August 2-6

Wisconsin State Fair
August 3-13

Appleton Mile of Music
Downtown Appleton
August 3-6

Burger Fest
Downtown Seymour
August 12

Greenville Summer Send Off
August 26