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Missouri to spend millions from relief fund to attract tourists

Gov. Parson has announced a statewide plan to use $15 million from the CARES Act, federal funds allocated to each to assist with COVID-19 relief, on promoting tourism in the state.

While the coronavirus rages on, economies across the U.S. have taken a hit, not excluding Missouri.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson called tourism “a great way to support Missouri businesses” at a Thursday afternoon press briefing, where officials held firm to the statement that visiting attractions and tourism in general can be done safely despite COVID-19.

Of the millions in CARES Act funding that the state has received, Parson announced that $15 million of the federal money will be used toward making safe tourism possible again.

“With all the other things going on, it’s still important people need to get out and enjoy life a little bit,” Parson said.

The CARES Act grant money will be designated for organizations that market specific destinations around the state.

Tourism Director Stephen Foutes said funding will help these groups “maintain their marketing focus” and “include messaging on safety measures that have been implemented by their attractions.”

Marketing groups can also apply to have the cost of safety measures such as temperature screenings offset through program, he said.