IL HB4037

Creates the Office of the Chief Tourism Officer within the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, appointed by the Director and serving at the Director's pleasure.

Chief Tourism Officer responsible for encouraging and promoting tourism through development and implementation of tourism policies, programs, and projects.

Chief Tourism Officer duties include collecting tourism data, supporting state and local tourism through promotional opportunities and marketing campaigns, and providing grants and business advice to tourism businesses.

Requires Chief Tourism Officer to conduct strategic planning and development including tourism strategies, economic impact studies, and implementation of marketing campaigns.

Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity authorized to adopt rules necessary for implementing this section.