The legislature hereby finds and declares that the promotion, attraction, stimulation, development and expansion of tourist travel, resort, vacation, culture and convention activities are vital and necessary concerns of the people of this state, since such activities form an important part of its economy. Therefore, it is hereby determined that a program authorizing matching funds and assistance to tourist promotion agencies for the planning and promotion of programs designed to stimulate and increase the volume of such tourist travel, resort, vacation, culture and convention activities within our state will strengthen its economy, increase employment of our citizens and promote the general welfare of the people.
N.Y. Economic Development Law § 160