Increasing our Nation’s Value through Economic Support and Tourism in Our Communities Act

H.R. 5517, the INVEST in Our Communities Act, would establish a new grant program to support the tourism, hospitality, and outdoor recreation industries in economically distressed areas. The bill authorizes $100 million annually through 2027 for "HOST" grants, which local communities could use for economic planning, workforce training, and infrastructure improvements like trails and boat ramps. Additionally, the legislation aims to help smaller communities by providing funding for professional staff and reducing the local matching funds required to receive federal economic development assistance.