ASTA Congratulates Ray LaHood on Nomination as Transportation Secretary
ALEXANDRIA, VA, December 24, 2008 - ASTA, the world's largest association of travel professionals, is congratulating U.S. Rep. Ray LaHood (R-IL18) on his nomination by President-elect Barack Obama to serve the nation as Secretary of Transportation.
"America's transportation needs are drawing new attention during the current economic downturn," said ASTA President and Chair Chris Russo. "Travel agents, and the broader travel and tourism industry, are in a position to drive an economic recovery, and the Department of Transportation will do much to determine the strategic direction of the transportation system within which our industry operates. We look forward to working with Ray LaHood in the months and years to come."
In a letter congratulating LaHood on his nomination, ASTA also outlined selected policy priorities for 2009, including the elimination of the Cuba travel ban, effective implementation of the Secure Flight program, and the passage of meaningful passenger rights legislation.
For additional information on this issue, please visit ASTA.org or contact Colin Tooze, vice president of government affairs, at ctooze@asta.org.
The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable and growing and a rewarding field in which to work, invest and do business.
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