REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND TOURISM TO REVIEW AND EVALUATE THE COST-BENEFIT AND RETURN ON INVESTMENT OF A POSSIBLE SPONSORSHIP OF A MICHELIN GUIDE FOR RESTAURANTS ACROSS THE STATE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 6 co-sponsors

Senate Resolution 46 directs Arkansas to evaluate the economic benefits of sponsoring the Michelin Guide, aiming to boost tourism and enhance local restaurants' visibility.

Report and Resolution Adopted as amended (SD1). Aye(s) with reservations: none. Noes, 1 (Senator(s) Awa).

#departmentofbusiness #economicdevelopment #michelinguide #restaurants #tourism #andtourism

# Summary of Senate Resolution 46 (SR 46) ## Purpose and Intent Senate Resolution 46 (SR 46) requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to conduct a comprehensive review and evaluation of the cost-benefit and return on investment (ROI) associated with a potential sponsorship of the Michelin Guide for restaurants across the state of Arkansas. The resolution aims to assess the economic impact and benefits that such a sponsorship could bring to the state's tourism and culinary sectors. ## Key Provisions - **Review and Evaluation**: The primary provision of SR 46 mandates the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to analyze the financial implications of sponsoring the Michelin Guide. - **Cost-Benefit Analysis**: The resolution emphasizes the need for a detailed cost-benefit analysis to determine whether the investment in the Michelin Guide would yield a favorable return for Arkansas. - **Focus on Tourism and Restaurants**: The evaluation will specifically target the potential effects on the restaurant industry and tourism, which are vital components of the state's economy. ## Affected Parties - **Restaurants**: Local restaurants may benefit from increased visibility and prestige if included in the Michelin Guide, potentially attracting more customers and enhancing their reputation. - **Tourism Sector**: The tourism industry in Arkansas could see a boost from increased interest in the state's culinary offerings, leading to higher visitor numbers and economic growth. - **State Government**: The findings from the evaluation will inform state policymakers regarding future investments in tourism and economic development initiatives. ## Legislative Actions and Timeline - **Introduced**: March 17, 2025 - **Adopted**: The resolution was reported and adopted as amended on April 2, 2025, with a vote of 3 in favor and 1 against (Senator Awa). - **Public Hearing**: A public hearing was held on March 25, 2025, to discuss the resolution. - **Final Adoption**: The resolution was read a third time and adopted on April 14, 2025. ## Conclusion Senate Resolution 46 serves as a strategic initiative to explore the potential economic benefits of aligning Arkansas's culinary scene with the prestigious Michelin Guide. By conducting a thorough evaluation, the state aims to make informed decisions that could enhance its tourism and restaurant industries, ultimately contributing to economic growth.