Millions of travelers could skip visiting the US if proposed social media policy is implemented, industry experts warn

A proposed rule requiring social media history from some
travelers to the US could have a "chilling" effect on the number
 of international residents
who come for work or pleasure, industry officials warn. -
Mark Felix/Bloomberg/Getty Images/File

Ahead of a proposed rule change that would require social media account information from some foreign travelers to the United States, international travel experts are saying the policy could further deter visitors from coming to the US — a decline that could translate into billions of dollars in lost revenue for the travel sector.

The warning — from the World Travel & Tourism Council — comes after the global industry group surveyed nearly 5,000 international residents who regularly travel abroad and found one-third of respondents would be somewhat or much less likely to visit the US if applicants to the Visa Waiver Program are required to submit information about their social media accounts.

The potential decline in travelers could cost the US an estimated $15.7 billion in lost visitor spending, according to WTTC. Under one scenario, the US could miss out on as many as 4.7 million international arrivals, which would represent a 23% drop in visitors from ESTA countries in 2026.

By Jeanne Bonner

Full story at Yahoo News