The First 100 Days: Assessing The Impact of the Trump Administration’s Policy Changes on the Hotel Industry

President Donald Trump’s second term reached the “100 days” milestone on April 30. During this time, there have been numerous changes in tax and trade policies, including promises made during the campaign. These changes, spanning from redrawing maps to reintroducing plastic straws, impact the economy, workforce relations, and various sectors like the lodging industry. The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) is dedicated to keeping its members informed about current and anticipated changes in public policy and informing policymakers about the consequences of decisions made in Washington on properties and communities nationwide.

AHLA communicates regularly with its members through avenues like Hotel Lobby and sends important updates in real-time through the “All Member Note.” To receive these alerts, AHLA members can sign up at ahla.com. The organization also gathers economic data from various sources, conducts crucial research on industry impacts, and seeks input through surveys to inform advocacy strategies and represent the industry’s interests to policymakers.

In the initial 100 days, significant changes affecting the industry include tax policy, Cabinet appointments, tariffs, federal spending and travel restrictions, and international inbound travel challenges. For instance, the extension of Trump’s 2017 tax plan has been a priority for Congress, while Cabinet appointments and tariffs have influenced regulatory policies and trade relations. The industry is closely monitoring the impacts of these changes and advocating for measures that benefit hoteliers.

Furthermore, the restrictions on federal travel, potential travel bans for certain countries, and the decline in international inbound visitors pose challenges to the lodging industry. AHLA is keeping a close watch on these developments and their implications for the industry’s recovery post-pandemic. Members will have the opportunity to engage directly with Congress on public policies affecting the industry during the annual Hotels on the Hill event in Washington, D.C., on May 13-14.

AHLA values the feedback and insights of its members and encourages them to stay informed and share their perspectives on government affairs. Members can reach out to govaffairs@ahla.com with any thoughts or ideas to contribute to the ongoing advocacy efforts.