The JOLT Act: 4 Ways It Would Positively Impact Our Industry

May 31, 2013

I recently had the privilege to represent GES at a roundtable discussion in Las Vegas with Congressman Joe Heck (R-NV). It was hosted by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), the U.S. Travel Association and Station Casinos.

My conversations with Congressman Heck were simply refreshing. I’m not much of a beltway insider and I don’t interact with politicians on a daily basis, but I came away from the meeting impressed by his knowledge of the challenges show organizers face when attracting international attendees to their U.S. trade shows and the downstream effect on participating exhibitors when a key international buyer cannot get a visa to attend.

What’s the “JOLT Act?” It stands for, “Jobs Originated through Launching Travel.” The JOLT Act is bipartisan legislation that was introduced by Representatives Joe Heck (R-NV), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Mark Amodei (R-NV), David Cicilline (D-RI) and Michael Grimm (R-NY) to leverage the benefits of inbound travel to the U.S. to increase not only economic growth, but also create jobs, generate additional tax revenue and boost U.S. exports.

The JOLT Act would impact OUR industry in four significant ways:

1. Modernize and expand the, “Visa Waiver Program.”
2. Facilitate the use of secure video conferencing to expedite visa interviews.
3. Reduce visa wait times.
4. Expand global entry.

I was encouraged when Congressman Heck mentioned that due to the bipartisan nature of the legislation, he’s getting support from his colleagues whose states also depend on tourism. Additionally, he explained that the districts that depend on manufacturing goods and selling products abroad have a vested interest too.

If you’ve been in the exhibition industry for as long as I have or even if you’ve recently joined, you know there is no better way to connect buyers and sellers than trade shows. Shows offer exponential value in connecting international buyers and sellers who normally wouldn’t be able to meet in their everyday life. If the U.S. wants to double exports, as stated by the President, there’s no better way than making it easier for international buyers to attend U.S. trade shows.

Being that Las Vegas is the premier business, conventions and meetings destination in the world, it is only fitting that the LVCVA continues to lead and support the greater meetings and tourism community by hosting these discussions. Please contact your congressman or senator to voice your support for the JOLT Act!

What potential do you believe the JOLT Act has to affect our industry? Share your thoughts below!

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MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy. Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative. Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates. The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities. MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025. MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.

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