NBTA Welcomes New US Secretary of Commerce
WASHINGTON, DC, March 26, 2009 - The National Business Travel Association (NBTA) - the largest association of business travel professionals - congratulates former Washington State Governor Gary Locke on his confirmation as Secretary of the Department of Commerce. Secretary Locke will play a key role in ensuring that business travel is a prime driver in the U.S. economic recovery.
NBTA President & CEO Kevin Maguire, CCTE, GLP, commented, "In this uncertain business climate, having a Secretary of Commerce with substantial experience encouraging international commerce is a promising aspect of the new Obama Administration. Secretary Locke compiled an outstanding record as Governor in recognizing the value of international trade and travel in the Pacific Northwest economy, and NBTA looks forward to the Secretary driving an aggressive agenda that recognizes the value of business travel."
NBTA issued a hard-line public policy agenda earlier in 2009 advocating balanced climate change, infrastructure investment, Federal Aviation Administration reform, expansion of international registered traveler programs, watch list reform, and fairness in travel taxes. NBTA has also been actively engaged in defending the value of business travel as Congress has considered legislation to curb perceived travel and entertainment abuses by companies receiving taxpayer assistance.
Maguire continued, "Secretary Locke will have a key seat at the table as the Obama Administration considers how to prevent companies from squandering government assistance while ensuring that legitimate business travel and meetings are not attacked by the media and politicians. Travel management is a crucial tool to ensure that companies make sound decisions that create jobs and increase employee productivity. We look forward to working with Secretary Locke to make our agenda a reality."
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