State tourism officials are making a pitch for money to a state legislative committee. Last year, the state of Colorado cut its tourism budget and suffered a major downturn in tourism revenue. This year, Illinois is considering cutting its tourism funding. While he acknowledges that Missouri’s money is tight, the state’s Director of Tourism John Robinson tells the Joint Legislative Committee on Tourism that it is imperative to see the money appropriated towards his division stays at least at current levels. Tourism officials say Missouri has a golden opportunity to cash in, if the state moves to invest.