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New Orleans is preparing for a significant increase in federal immigration enforcement, with approximately 200 Border Patrol agents expected in the city in the coming weeks. This surge follows similar operations in other major cities and has local law enforcement coordinating closely with federal authorities. While these operations aim to remove public safety threats, immigration attorneys warn that the arrival of so many federal agents can create confusion for local businesses.

For restaurants and hospitality businesses, it is critical to understand the legal limits of federal agents. Agents may enter public areas, such as dining rooms, but cannot access private employee areas or kitchens without a judicial warrant. Business owners and managers should know their rights and be prepared to document any interactions with enforcement agents. Their main focus will be reviewing your I-9 forms, which should be kept separately in a file and ready to produce upon request.

The NRA’s Restaurant Law Center offers valuable resources to help businesses navigate these situations. Earlier this year, the center hosted a webinar that is now available on demand, along with a PDF guide outlining what to know and what to do if subjected to an ICE raid. Reviewing these materials can help restaurant owners and managers protect employees, safeguard private areas, and ensure compliance with the law during this period of heightened enforcement.

Watch the webinar on demand HERE. 

Read the full guide HERE.