WASHINGTON, DC, May 8 – AAHOA Vice Chairwoman Jagruti Panwala testified before the House
Committee on Small Business Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access. In her
remarks, Panwala focused on the impact of the travel and tourism industry on the American economy.
She also highlighted the contributions of hotels and discussed the challenges the industry faces.
“It is a privilege to appear before the Congress and share the story of our industry and the important role
that travel and tourism play in driving the American economy. This week, hundreds of AAHOA members
are meeting with their elected officials and sharing their stories of small business success and helping our
lawmakers understand how the policies they create are affecting their constituencies. The economic
indicators in America’s travel and tourism industry point to strong economic performance and a
promising future. Unemployment is low, and business and consumer confidences are high. Hoteliers are
increasing wages and workers are in demand,” said Panwala.
Panwala and her family are small business owners from Pennsylvania who are independent owners and
operators of five hotels in the northeastern United States. She is also the CEO of a financial planning
company that helps small business owners reach their development goals.
This week marks AAHOA’s Spring National Advocacy Conference as well as the 35th annual National
Travel and Tourism Week. Members of the travel and tourism industry are in Washington to educate
lawmakers about the value travel brings to the American economy, businesses, and communities.
