The California Lodging Industry Association (CLIA), since its inception in 1946, has served as a major voice for the independent lodging industry when group action has been needed, especially important when lobbying industry views before government agencies. Its industry mission is thus: To serve the common interests of lodging owners and operators by promoting a more prosperous climate through service, education, legislation and profit-oriented programs.

In order to accomplish this mission, a small group of motel owners first formed the Motor Hotel Association of California, later to become known as the California Motel Association, as a non-profit trade organization. First based in Los Angeles, the Association began as individual chapters throughout the state under the "parent" association. At the October 1983 Annual Convention, the membership approved a change of name to the "California Lodging Industry Association" in order to more properly reflect current industry trends and image.

Some years ago, realizing the need to be "closer to the action," CLIA moved to Sacramento. Now the Association could become more actively involved in representing its members to the State Legislature. Over the years CLIA legislative advocates have worked diligently to enact laws that protect the industry from unscrupulous operators and those who would knowingly defraud innkeepers.

CLIA has become increasingly active in seeking more effective ways to promote travel and tourism to and within the state utilizing the legislative process. Most notable was the passage of California Tourism Policy Act, which included a $5 million appropriation for generic tourism promotion. CLIA was a lead organization in securing the 1984 legislation and the attendant funding.

Bed & Breakfast Inns of California is a division of the California Lodging Industry Association. In that CLIA has long represented the needs of Bed & Breakfasts operators, a decision was made in 1992 to organize a special division within CLIA to give Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers a more focused voice on issues affecting them.

California Countryside travelers benefit from CLIA's efforts via a richer selection of lodging choices and services. Additionally, travelers can search for and book reservations at CLIA-member properties through California Lodging Reservations, CLIA's online reservations center. The Web site address is listed in the information box above.

<< Back to All Associations