By Olivia Story
From city council meetings to Capitol Hill, AAHOA remains a powerful voice for America’s hotel owners. In recent weeks, AAHOA Members and leaders have engaged directly with elected officials at every level of government, building relationships, advocating for smart policies, and protecting the interests of small business owners across the country. These efforts remind us of the strength in unity and the impact of consistent, boots-on-the-ground advocacy.
Here’s a look at some of the latest ways AAHOA is showing up and speaking out for our members.
Back of the House, Front of Mind
In Belton, MO, AAHOA Lifetime Members hosted Rep. Mark Alford (R-MO) for a Back of the House Tour at a Fairfield Inn & Suites. The tour offered a behind-the-scenes look at daily hotel operations and the realities facing small business owners and staff. Back of the House Tours are one of AAHOA’s most effective advocacy tools. They give elected officials firsthand insight into the hospitality industry and create space for honest conversations about policy and economic impact, helping to build lasting relationships with lawmakers who shape our future. Standing
Strong Against Sudden Tax Hikes
In Tucson, AZ, a surprise proposal to increase the hotel-motel surtax by $1 quickly mobilized the local hospitality community. AAHOA Southwest Region Ambassador Jigar (Jay) Desai partnered with the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association and fellow hotel owners to oppose the move, arguing that budget gaps shouldn’t be filled on the backs of small businesses and tourism.
At the same time, the group defended the existing $1 tax that supports Visit Tucson, a critical driver of regional tourism and economic development. Their unified stance served as a powerful reminder: When hoteliers join forces, they can make a real difference.
Fostering Constructive Dialogue on Public Safety
On the same day in Riverside, CA, South Pacific Regional Director Nilesh (Neil) Bhakta and South Pacific AAHOA Ambassador Dharmesh Kumar met with Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson to discuss local public safety issues, particularly the burden placed on motel owners who are billed for all police calls to their properties.
Joined by Dr. Manoj Shah and other AAHOA Members, the group used the meeting to illuminate the practical effects of this policy and offer alternative perspectives. The result: A more informed dialogue and a step forward in strengthening relationships between the city and local business owners.
Building Relationships with Champions in Congress
In Washington, D.C., advocacy continued at the federal level. Greater Los Angeles Area Regional Director Naresh (ND) Bhakta and AAHOA Government Affairs Committee Chair GJ Zala met with Congressman Lou Correa (D-CA) to discuss issues affecting hoteliers, with a focus on the Loans In Our Neighborhoods (LIONs) Act.
Congressman Correa’s knowledge and genuine engagement underscored the value of having informed, supportive policymakers in our corner. As AAHOA continues to forge partnerships with Congressional leaders, meetings like this help shape a stronger future for our industry.
North Pacific Region Hosts Fundraiser for California Attorney General
North Pacific Regional Director Ankit Panchal recently hosted a political fundraiser in support of California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Alameda County District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson was also in attendance. The event provided an opportunity to engage with key decision-makers on issues affecting local communities and the hotel industry.
AAHOA Advocates for Small Business Owners at Los Angeles City Hall
Leaders from the Greater Los Angeles Area Region, including Regional Director Naresh (ND) Bhakta and Ray Patel, an AAHOA Lifetime Member and president of the Northeast Los Angeles Hotel Owners Association, joined others at Los Angeles City Hall during the final reading of the proposed $38 minimum wage ordinance that will directly impact the hospitality sector.
AAHOA Members met with Councilmembers Nithya Raman and John Lee to continue pushing for a carve-out for hotels with 150 rooms or fewer. Although the ordinance passed, the engagement highlighted ongoing efforts to protect small business owners.
San Diego Members Unite for Local Hotel Owners
South Pacific Regional Director Nilesh (Neil) Bhakta and area AAHOA Members are working together to protest a wage increase proposed by the San Diego City Council Select Committee on Addressing Cost of Living. The ordinance would raise the minimum wage for hotel workers to $25 per hour and could take effect on January 1, 2026, if approved. Bhakta and other members attended a meeting about the wage hike earlier this year; the next hearing was scheduled for late June.
Representing Hoteliers on the National Stage
Rounding out this season of advocacy, AAHOA participated in a Small Business Stakeholder Roundtable hosted by House Majority Whip Tom Emmer. AAHOA Senior Director of Government Affairs Daniel New joined other national organizations and congressional leaders to highlight the importance of policies that support entrepreneurship and small business growth.
AAHOA extends its gratitude to Whip Emmer and House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams for including hoteliers in these critical conversations and recognizing their role in America’s economic engine.
Looking Ahead
From local meetings to national roundtables, the common thread across these efforts is simple: Engagement matters. AAHOA is committed to empowering our members, amplifying their voices, and creating avenues for real change – not just in times of crisis, but every day. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient hospitality industry.
Stay connected, stay informed, and keep advocating. Because when we show up, we lead.
Image: thanawat/stock.adobe.com
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