Representative Bill Posey (R-FL) introduced bipartisan legislation last month that promises to assist businesses and employees in the hotel and tourism industry by requiring the General Services Administration to take into consideration the economic impact of the coronavirus when setting future per diem rates for federal travel.
Specifically, the legislation (HR 6995) requires the General Services Administration to set future federal per diem rates at 2020 levels which is based on data from 2019.
According to Posey, past economic crises show it can take years for the hotel and travel industry to recover to previous levels.
“The coronavirus has had a crippling effect on many sectors of our economy like the hospitality and tourism industries which are essential to us here in Florida and many other travel destinations around the country,” said Posey. “Setting per diem rates at the 2020 level is one important way that the federal government can help struggling businesses and their employees recover faster”.
The legislation is co-sponsored by Congressman Charlie Crist (D-FL).
“Tourism is the heart of Florida’s economy,” said Rep. Crist. “It makes sense for GSA to set a per diem rate that does not take into account the near-term impact of the coronavirus, but rather takes a longer view.”
