HALLOWELL – The Maine Tourism Association welcomes the news today from Governor Mills that the state is easing travel restrictions for out-of-state visitors and expanding business capacity.
CEO Tony Cameron stated, “Throughout this pandemic, one of the most significant challenges for the tourism industry is uncertainty about what the future holds. Early spring is a critical time for our businesses. We’re beginning to gear up for what we hope is once again our ‘busy’ season. A clear understanding today of what the travel guidelines and capacity limitations will be heading into spring and summer and the very real possibility of further easing of restrictions is tremendously helpful.”
MTA continues to work cooperatively with the Administration and appreciates the willingness of Governor Janet Mills and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Heather Johnson to listen to the concerns of the tourism industry as they balance health and safety regulations with Maine’s economic realities.
“MTA operates the state’s toll-free visitor information phone line and the most frequently asked question of late is ‘Can I travel to Maine without restrictions if I’ve been vaccinated?’ The fact that we can now answer that question in the affirmative, and know that as of May 1, there will be no exempt states list. Visitors from all states can travel to Maine without testing or quarantine restrictions unless the Maine CDC determines otherwise. This dramatically increases Maine’s chances for a successful summer tourism season,” Cameron said.
“The Maine Tourism Association is looking forward to the day when we announce that businesses can operate at full capacity and that there are no travel restrictions,” added Cameron. “Tourism affects so much more than the tourism businesses. When tourism is successful the entire state benefits.”
“With this strategy, visitors now have the information they need to plan their Maine vacation. We encourage them to plan now. People who plan a trip are far more likely to actually take that trip—and people are very ready to travel,” Cameron said.
The Maine Tourism Association is the state’s largest tourism association and was incorporated in 1922. MTA represents members statewide that provide traditional tourism interests such as lodging, restaurants, camps and campgrounds, retail, outdoor recreation, guides and tours, amusements, and cultural and heritage attractions. MTA also operates the seven State Visitor Information Centers and produces the state’s official travel planner, Maine Invites You.
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