Gibbons appointed chairman of House committee

April 7, 2016

HARRISBURG, Pa. - State Representative Jaret Gibbons, D-Beaver/Butler/Lawrence, will assume a new leadership role as the Democratic chairman of the House Tourism and Recreational Development Committee.

According to democratic leader Frank Dermody, Gibbons was tabbed for the post because of his legislative acumen and strong interest in the job-creating possibilities of Pennsylvania's widespread tourism and recreational facilities.

"Jaret Gibbons is a strong, independent voice in the state House for his constituents, including Slippery Rock University" Dermody said. "Being a committee chairman will give him added responsibility for shaping statewide policies."

Gibbons enthusiastically accepted the new role and said he looks forward to working with members of the committee and its Republican chairman, David Hickernell of Lancaster County, to review legislation and conduct hearings across the state.

Gibbons underlined the importance of tourism and recreation to the Pennsylvania economy.

"From the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia to the Gettysburg battlefield, to Pittsburgh's museums and all of our beautiful state parks and rivers, tourism and recreation is a $39.2 billion industry and a major supporter of jobs for Pennsylvania residents year-round," Gibbons said. "I'm proud to be appointed chairman and I look forward to working with partners in the industry to help make the most of our assets."

He noted that travel, tourism and hospitality providers employ several hundred thousand Pennsylvanians.

Gibbons said in 2015 there were 190 million domestic travelers to Pennsylvania, in addition to the 1 million annual, overseas visitors and the additional 2 million day trip and overnight visitors from Canada.

More information on Pennsylvania tourism is available at: www.visitpa.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: Roseann Cadau | 717.787.7895 | racadau@pahouse.net