Rep. Brian Seitz and Sen. Brad Hudson receive Sen. Emory Melton Legislative Award

At the recent Missouri Governor’s Conference on Tourism both Rep. Brian Seitz and Sen. Brad Hudson received the Sen. Emory Melton Legislative Award in honor of their work to support and promote the tourism industry.

The Sen. Emory Melton Legislative Award honors individuals who recognize the value of tourism to the state and work through the legislative process to support Missouri’s tourism industry.

Recipient Rep. Brian Seitz

A member of the Missouri Tourism Commission and chair of the House Special Committee on Tourism, state Rep. Brian Seitz was recognized for his dedication to the tourism industry. He leads with a focus on the state’s natural beauty, attractions and economic growth. His support in the Capitol and on the commission continue to help ensure Missouri’s tourism industry and revenue soar upward.

Rep. Seitz, with wife Valerie (Photo submitted)

Seitz’s statement: “It’s an honor to receive this award after a year where we achieved some big wins for the tourism industry. Last session I was able to fight for funding restoration for tourism in the House budget, and partner with Sen. Hudson to reestablish the Missouri Tourism Supplemental Revenue Fund. In previous sessions I’ve been able to fiercely advocate for our area of the state, including gaining recognition for Branson as the Live Entertainment Capital of Missouri. Through my service as Chairman of the House Tourism Committee, to my work as a Missouri Tourism Commissioner, I have worked to protect, defend and promote one of our state’s main economic drivers. It’s an honor to receive this award and a privilege to serve.”

Recipient Sen. Brad Hudson

State Sen. Brad Hudson was recognized for his work during legislative session to restore the Tourism Supplemental Revenue Fund, helping guarantee an uninterrupted revenue stream to organizations across Missouri and to the Division of Tourism. His advocacy in the Senate helped ensure the industry kept moving smoothly and will for years to come.

Sen. Hudson, with wife Carissa (Photo submitted)

Hudson’s statement: “If you didn’t grow up in these Ozark hills, experiencing all that our area has to offer, it’s easy to take it for granted. From Branson, to Table Rock, to Silver Dollar City, the tourists that come to our area of the Ozarks provide a massive economic impact for the bottom line of our state. Along with my colleague in the House, Rep. Seitz, I was able to gain full restoration of the tourism budget last year. This vital funding continues to ensure the future of one of Missouri’s main economic drivers. It’s truly a team effort to accomplish the work that we do, but I’m grateful for this recognition of my work to promote tourism in Missouri. As long as I’m in service to our state, I will be a champion of our tourism industry.”