1.    The legislative assembly declares that:

a.    This state is endowed with scenic beauty, historical sites, cultural resources, local festivals, attractions, recreational facilities, and a population whose ethnic diversity and traditions are attractive to visitors; b.    Tourism contributes to economic well-being by creating job opportunities, generating revenues for local businesses, and creating new wealth in the economy; c.    Tourism instills state pride and a sense of common interest among the state’s residents;     d.    Tourism enhances the quality of life and well-being of the state’s residents by affording opportunities for recreation, new experiences, and relief from job stress; e.    Tourism advertising and marketing improves the image of North Dakota and helps educate and create awareness among residents and visitors alike; f.    Tourism promotes international understanding and good will, and contributes to intercultural appreciation; g.    The development of a strong and competitive state visitor industry depends upon the availability of trained personnel, necessary infrastructure, and a receptive climate for tourism investment; and

h.    A comprehensive tourism policy is essential if tourism in the state is to grow in an orderly manner.

2.    The legislative assembly declares it is the policy of this state to:

a.    Promote and encourage the orderly growth and development of tourism to, and within, the state; b.    Promote the availability of reliable public highways and transport services between    the    state’s    principal    tourism    destinations    and    the    main tourism-generating markets; c.    Promote a sense of history in the state’s young people by encouraging family visits to state historic sites, and promoting the preservation and restoration of historic sites, trails, buildings, and districts; d.    Promote the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of the American people by encouraging outdoor recreational activities within the state; e.    Facilitate tourism to, and within, the state by developing an essential tourism infrastructure, providing investment incentives to tourism businesses, and encouraging city and county officials to plan for tourism needs and capitalize on local tourism resources; f.    Encourage the holding of conventions, trade shows, and expositions throughout the state; g.    Take measures to protect wildlife and natural resources in the preservation of geological, archaeological, and cultural treasures in tourist areas; h.    Encourage, assist, and coordinate when possible the tourism activities of local and area promotional organizations and tribes; i.    Provide hospitality training opportunities for frontline employees and provide resources to law enforcement personnel, border security, transportation security administration officials, and all state employees to assist, whenever possible, the tourism industry in helping visitors enjoy their North Dakota experience; and

j.    Ensure that the tourism interest of the state is considered fully by state agencies and the legislative assembly in their deliberations; and harmonize to the maximum extent possible, all state activities in support of tourism with the needs of the general public, the political subdivisions of the state, and the visitor industry.