Obama Says US Needs More Tourism

President Barack Obama on Thursday unveiled a plan to boost tourism in the United States, making the announcement from Walt Disney World in Florida.

“We need to help businesses all across the country grow and create jobs, compete, and win. That’s how we’re going to rebuild an economy where hard work pays off, where responsibility is rewarded, and where anyone can make it if they try,” he said, according to a transcript.

Obama is expanding upon the Global Entry Program by making it easier for nonimmigrant visa processes into the country for certain applicants.

“Instead of going through long lines at immigration, we can scan your passport, your fingerprints, and you’re on your way,” he said.

Obama said that in 2010, 60 million people visited the United States and spent around $134 billion. His administration estimates that around 1.2 million jobs are generated by international tourism and increasing expenditures in the sector that creates even more jobs.