House 19

SENATE RESOLUTION 19

(By Senators Smith (Mr. President), Hamilton, and Clements)

[Introduced January 28, 2026]

Designating January 28, 2026, as West Virginia Tourism and History Day at the Legislature.

Whereas, Tourism in West Virginia highlights the natural beauty of the state and what it has to offer, while also sharing the Mountain State’s rich and varied history; and

Whereas, West Virginia is home to four distinct seasons, each providing unique opportunities for visitors and residents alike to experience the state’s scenic beauty, cultural traditions, historic communities, and heritage sites; and

Whereas, West Virginia is home to an array of world-class tourism establishments, historic attractions, museums, and cultural organizations that promote art, culture, and history, connecting past and present for future generations; and

Whereas, West Virginia’s rugged terrain, encompassed entirely by the lush Appalachian Mountains, offers renowned trails, rivers, lakes, mountain overlooks, and historic landscapes that are visited by millions each year; and

Whereas, Tourism plays a vital role in both small rural towns and metropolitan areas, where tourism and heritage-related businesses and organizations welcome visitors, strengthen local economies, and foster pride of place; and

Whereas, Tourism industry partners located in all nine travel regions help to showcase the best version of Almost Heaven, generating over $9 billion in economic impact for West Virginia last year, while also elevating the state’s unique stories, traditions, and historic assets; and

Whereas, Through hard work, legendary hospitality, and commitment to preservation, West Virginia’s tourism and history partners contribute over $2 billion in annual income, support more than 60,000 jobs, and generate over $1.1 billion in tax revenue annually, contributing $859 per West Virginia household in state and local tax revenues that help support essential government services; and

Whereas, Travelers spend an average of $18 million per day in West Virginia, benefitting tourism businesses, historic sites, museums, and cultural organizations that rely on visitation to sustain their missions; and

Whereas, The State of West Virginia has a rich and varied history that provides a wellspring of pride in the accomplishments of its people and serves as a foundation and springboard for future generations; and

Whereas, The preservation, interpretation, and promotion of West Virginia’s history is made possible through the generous work of volunteers, educators, students, and professionals, often referred to as History Heroes, who dedicate hundreds of hours each year to educating the public and safeguarding the state’s heritage; and

Whereas, Tourism and history industry partners, students, educators, and volunteers from across the state have gathered at the Capitol today to recognize the combined impact of travel, tourism, and heritage preservation on West Virginia’s economy, identity, and quality of life; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby designates January 28, 2026, as West Virginia Tourism and History Day at the Legislature; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate recognizes and commends all tourism and history organizations, businesses, volunteers, educators, and partners throughout the state who work to promote West Virginia’s culture, educate its citizens, preserve its heritage, and strengthen its communities; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate encourages all citizens and visitors to explore West Virginia’s scenic beauty, historic places, and cultural experiences; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism.