A study sponsored by the Arizona Tourism Alliance paints a grim picture for the industry unless the state reverses some of the budget cuts that already have been approved.

Perhaps the biggest booster of the Arizona Office of Tourism is the Arizona Hotel and Lodging Association, a public policy advocate for the industry that represents more than 400 hotels, resorts and bed and breakfasts throughout the state.

Despite losing about 65 percent of its budget in the midst of a severe statewide economic crunch, the outlook at the Arizona Office of Tourism seems as bright as the Arizona sun.

The nationwide recession delivered a heavy uppercut to Arizona’s tourism industry, but state tourism officials are hoping to avoid a knockout blow by leaning more heavily on foreign travelers.