Ariz. immigration law said to hit conventions
Web Producer: Mekita Rivas
PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona's 2010 immigration enforcement law is being called a lingering hindrance to Phoenix's ability to lure gatherings to its convention center.
Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau spokesman Scott Dunn says a misperception that Phoenix does not value diversity is an impediment to attracting national conventions.
Dunn says many conventions are planned years ahead and that some effects of the law aren't being seen until now.
The Arizona Republic reports that convention center bookings are down by as much as 30 percent from 2009.
The newspaper says the immigration law known as SB1070 is one of several possible factors. Others include the recession and tighter strings on corporate and government travel.
However, the Republic says other cities with comparable convention facilities have slowly rebounding or relatively flat guest counts.
(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.