Tourism promotion money wins committee approval

LANSING (AP) -- A bill that would transfer an additional $10 million into the state's Pure Michigan tourism advertising campaign is advancing. The legislation approved Tuesday by the House Natural Resources, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Committee would allow $20 million to go into the promotion from the state's 21st Century Jobs Fund. That would be an increase from the currently scheduled $10 million. The bill sponsored by Republican Rep. Wayne Schmidt of Traverse City advances to the House floor. Supporters of the Pure Michigan campaign say the latest proposed increase would boost funding for the program to $25 million as requested by Gov. Rick Snyder. The Pure Michigan campaign has received positive reviews from lawmakers but they haven't agreed on a steady, permanent funding source. ---------- The funding legislation is House Bill 4160. Published: Thu, Feb 10, 2011