June 21, 2026 to June 27, 2026

This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions and other government-related news concerning hotels, restaurants, casinos, gaming operations, event and sports venues, cruise lines, theme parks, ski resorts, outdoor spaces, RV and caravan parks, and all hospitality, travel and tourism professionals. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to track GR news in adjacent industries related? Don’t miss this week’s updates in Arts & Culture. Also consider subscribing to our Hospitality & Retail - Ottawa edition covering critical GR news north of the border.

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📜 Legislative Updates
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Federal Government News

CDC Continues Suspension of Entry from Ebola-Affected Countries

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued an order, effective June 21, 2026, continuing the suspension of entry for certain individuals from Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan due to ongoing transmission of Ebola caused by Bundibugyo virus. The order, valid for 30 days, applies to any person who has been present in those countries within the preceding 21 days, including lawful permanent residents, while exempting U.S. citizens and specified government personnel. CDC cited the sharp increase in cases in DRC (837 confirmed cases as of June 15, 2026) and continued cross-border risk. Operational challenges for travel, hospitality, and visa-dependent recruitment may persist as airports and transit hubs remain affected. Comments on the order are open until July 10, 2026, and the agency may amend the restrictions prior to expiration.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Department of Commerce Revises User Fees for Export and Investment Promotion Services

The International Trade Administration (ITA) announced revisions to the User Fee Schedule, effective July 22, 2026, impacting fees for export and investment promotion services. The new structure eliminates discounts previously offered to small and medium enterprises and adjusts standardized service fees to fully recover costs, as required under OMB Circular A-25. Fees for services such as Contact Lists, Gold Key Service, and Trade Show Representation have increased substantially, with Contact Lists rising from $450 to $950 per report for all firms, and Gold Key Service now set at $3,250 plus direct costs. New offerings include the Rural Export Center matrix reports, and expanded trade event menu services. The changes will affect trade missions, event planning, and international partnership engagement by lodging, event, and hospitality entities. Additional direct costs, including translation and logistics, will be passed on to clients. Public comments are being solicited on the schedule and fee structure.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Department of Labor Requests Comments on FMLA Information Collection

The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division has submitted revisions for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget. The comment period remains open until July 27, 2026. The FMLA requires private sector employers with 50 or more employees to provide up to 12 weeks of job-protected, unpaid leave for qualifying medical and family reasons. The proposed updates affect notices and certifications used by employers and employees, with over 76 million anticipated responses and an estimated burden of more than 9 million hours annually. The collection is relevant for hospitality and travel businesses, particularly those operating hotels, restaurants, and event venues with large workforces.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Supreme Court Upholds Trump Administration Authority to Terminate TPS for Haitian Migrants

The U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision supporting the Trump Administration's legal authority to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian migrants. The ruling enables the federal government to advance policies prioritizing expedited deportation, stricter asylum rules, and enhanced border security. Key measures underway include changes to work permits, increased deportation flights, new visa restrictions, and additional requirements for naturalization. These policy actions may affect employment practices, visa processing, and workforce mobility across hospitality, entertainment, and tourism sectors.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Legislative Updates

Improving Travel for American Families Act

Bill 8897, the Improving Travel for American Families Act, covering transportation and public works, has been ordered to be reported following a unanimous committee vote (30-0). If enacted, the bill could impact travel infrastructure relevant to vacation rentals, hospitality, and passenger vessel operations.

Sources: www.congress.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• Surviving That First Trip With a Baby: WSJ explores industry adaptations for family travel and amenities for new parents.
• It’s Getting too Expensive to Have Fun: Article details how rising costs are impacting attendance at leisure and hospitality destinations.
• Affogato and Rendang on the Menu in Canada’s High Arctic: NYT examines culinary tourism trends and the emergence of specialty dining experiences in Nunavut.
• EXCLUSIVE: Dubai enlists businesses to help secure hub status after Iran war shock: Reuters reports on Dubai's hospitality and travel sectors collaborating to reinforce international hub status following regional disruptions.

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