New legislation, aimed at providing parents the ability to claim $2,000 in tax credits to cover youth sports expenses, is gathering support. The bipartisan measure is intended to help counteract federal budget cuts that could reduce or remove afterschool sports programs. Apparently, credits could be used for travel sports, in addition to rec programs.

A hospitality pay hike in Los Angeles nicknamed “the Olympic wage” has survived a last-minute countermeasure, in the form of a referendum brought by two airlines and a hotel group that wanted to revoke the law passed near the beginning of the summer. The ordinance, which raises the minimum wage for hotel and airport workers, now takes effect.

Hotel room construction is up but a micro-trend in that sector bears watching: The addition of more, and more accessible, hotel rooms, as well as other facilities in hotels to accommodate users with physical and developmental challenges. As the Americans with Disabilities Act celebrates its 35th anniversary, there are more changes than ever.

Turf wars? More like surf wars. USA Surfing has made it clear it wants to govern the sport, although US Ski & Snowboard also wants to. The issue: USA Surfing voluntarily decertified itself in the wake of reports of mismanaged funds after the 2020 Games. Now, it wants to retake control. San Clemente, where surfing will be hosted in 2028, is on board.

From tennis to basketball to pickleball, one aspect of a sports facility can make a significant impact when it comes to the popularity of the event among players: Sports surfaces that are engineered to reduce the potential for injury, the possibility of heat exhaustion and the chance for impact to joints. Here is a rundown on the technology available.

Softball participation continues to be on the rise in the U.S., with at least 9.2 million Americans taking to the fastpitch or slowpitch diamonds, according to some key industry research. All this is good news for event owners looking for communities that combine excellent facilities with interesting attractions and strong destination support.