Visit Florida's CEO Dana Young addressed the removal of the LGBTQ travel section from the state-funded tourism agency's website, stating it was necessary for their marketing to align with the state. This decision, which has drawn significant criticism, especially from LGBTQ advocates and tourism professionals, was made without prior public explanation, leading to claims of erasure from Rachel Covello, who runs an LGBTQ travel blog. Critics, including local business owner Maryann Ferenc, argue that this move contradicts Florida's history of being welcoming and could harm tourism revenue, particularly from the LGBTQ demographic. Governor Ron DeSantis, who stated he was unaware of the page's removal until after it happened, echoed that the state does not segregate tourists based on characteristics. The decision has sparked a debate about inclusivity and the impact on Florida's tourism economy, which welcomed over 140 million visitors last year. Visit Florida, while asserting it remains a welcoming state, has faced scrutiny over its commitment to LGBTQ representation in its marketing efforts.