Chirag Shah

📈 Federal government reopened on Nov. 13 after a 43-day shutdown, costing the U.S. economy over $1.2 billion in hotel-related activity and $6 billion in travel and hospitality. Oxford Economics noted a 1% demand drop for airlines and hotels. 64% of surveyed hotel operators reported revenue decline. Federal Aviation Administration reduced flight schedules, causing delays. AHLA urged Congress to pass a long-term funding bill before Jan. 30 to prevent future disruptions.

💰 President Trump signed a law on July 4, making 2017 tax provisions permanent for hoteliers. Key provisions include: Pass-through deduction permanency for small-business owners, 100% bonus depreciation, no tax on tips benefiting 800,000 industry workers until 2028, and preserving Section 1031 for capital gains deferral. AHLA's advocacy ensured no new harmful tax increases for hoteliers. This provides tax certainty, allowing reinvestment and economic growth. AHLA remains focused on further industry policy goals.