evidence: Gov. Justice announces record $7 billion annual tourism impact for 2022 [...] Davis, WV — Gov. Jim Justice today joined more than 300 tourism-industry members to announce West Virginia’s best tourism year ever, with the industry’s economic impact exceeding $7 billion last year. That number represents a 17% increase in visitor spending compared to pre-pandemic levels, far higher than the United States’ overall 1% post-pandemic tourism recovery. [...] Traveler spending in West Virginia contributes significantly to the state’s economy. Food and beverage spending topped $1.4 billion in 2022. Lodging spending surpassed $800 million for the first time ever, led by a 275% increase in short-term rental revenue since 2019.