Tourism is the lifeblood of Myrtle Beach

Tourism is the economic engine of our state's economy: It contributes more than $16 billion annually to the state's economy, accounts for 11 percent of the state's employment and generates more than $1.1 billion in state and local tax revenue each year.

With this year's economy, destinations are competing fiercely for precious visitor dollars. For every $1 spent advertising our destination, we generate $72 in return.

Yet no funds have been set aside for destination-specific tourism promotion in the upcoming state budget, which begins July 1. In recent years, Grand Strand businesses have cooperatively invested their funds into the state's 2-for-1 grant program. Through regional tourism promotion, we have made great strides in building awareness and gaining market share. Unfortunately, the state may not be able to continue to support the 2-for-1 program. For the first time ever, we may receive zero funds from the state to promote the Myrtle Beach area, the state's largest tourism destination.

With the lack of state funding, lawmakers, tourism leaders and local officials must be creative in deriving alternative funding sources. Members of the Horry County delegation have introduced legislation enabling a local option tourism fee, which must be approved by the General Assembly and governor to become law.

If passed, the law would untie the hands of local government and allow our local leaders to do what their counterparts in numerous others states and cities do: Invest local tax collections in our local economy instead of sending more money to Columbia. All money collected would benefit our community by enhancing tourism promotion, funding important public infrastructure and/or reducing local property taxes. The fee, if passed, would make us less dependent on a declining state budget and ensure a predictable, recurring source of funds.

Let's keep tourism strong by investing in our destination. Our jobs, our schools and our businesses depend on keeping the lifeblood of the Myrtle Beach area pulsing.