The tourism industry is a major source of strength for the state's economy. Tourism is the fourth largest employer and fifth largest contributor to the gross state product. Nevertheless, the industry has suffered from some neglect by policymakers, especially in the budgeting process. State support for promoting tourism has historically been very modest, averaging about $5 million a year for the last 20 years. CalChamber would like to encourage increased travel to California by fostering investment in advertising and improvements to tourism infrastructure, considering the important role of tourism in the states economy and plans for economic recovery.