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On the Radar: Latest Trends & Updates
Here, you'll find timely updates, industry insights, and exciting announcements about our association and the vibrant restaurant community we serve. Stay informed about upcoming events, important initiatives, and key developments that impact our industry. We’re thrilled to keep you connected and engaged with the latest happenings in the world of hospitality.
Latest News The U.S. Court of International Trade has stayed NOAA’s planned January 1, 2026, import ban on blue swimming crab from Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka-a major development for seafood importers and restaurant operators who depend on these key overseas fisheries. Key Takeaways Import Ban Paused: The scheduled January 1, 2026, import…
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Latest News For the first time, the American South has been included in the Michelin Guide, and we’re proud to celebrate our Louisiana Restaurant Association members recognized in this inaugural selection. LRA members were featured across multiple categories, including Recommended Eateries, Bib Gourmand honorees, and Michelin Star recipients. Congratulations to Emeril’s for earning two Michelin…
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Latest News New Orleans Mayoral and City Council Races The recent Oct. 11 elections in New Orleans reflected a clear mandate from the city’s voters. Helena Moreno was elected Mayor, while the City Council At-Large seats were won by JP Morrell (reelected with 66% of the vote) and Matthew Willard (59%), making them the first…
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Latest News If you missed our recent webinar on the Visa/Mastercard Settlement Claims Process, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with all the resources you need to get started on recovering your share of the $5.54 billion settlement. The webinar, presented by Megan Kuzma of DCAP Claims, covered everything from eligibility requirements to filing steps,…
Latest News In a significant victory for small businesses, a federal court has issued a nationwide preliminary injunction against the enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This reporting mandate, requiring businesses with less than $5 million in revenue and fewer than 20 employees to disclose detailed ownership information, has been blocked for potentially overstepping…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is applauding U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy’s leadership in introducing the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Act, alongside Senator Maggie Hassan. This legislation seeks to strengthen the WOTC, a vital federal tax credit that has historically helped employers connect with individuals facing employment barriers, including…
Latest News Effective January 1, 2025, Louisiana’s updated seafood labeling law aims to promote transparency by providing accurate information about the origin of crawfish and shrimp served in food establishments. Replacing previous labeling requirements, the new law emphasizes truth in advertising while supporting Louisiana’s renowned seafood industry. Here’s a breakdown of what the law entails…
Latest News President-elect Donald Trump’s recent statements about imposing tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China have stirred concerns across industries, especially for the U.S. foodservice and restaurant sectors. With these three countries being the U.S.’s top trading partners, such tariffs could significantly affect the supply chain and pricing of food and beverage commodities.…
Latest News Starting January 1, 2025, Louisiana’s state sales tax rate will increase from 4.45% to 5%. While this increase applies uniformly across all parishes, combined state and local sales tax rates will vary depending on your location. In many areas, these rates will exceed 10%, so businesses should prepare to update their Point-of-Sale (POS)…
Latest News As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a time to reflect on what truly matters-the connections we share, the communities we build, and the gratitude we hold for those who make our lives richer. For the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA), this season is an opportunity to celebrate and thank the incredible members of Louisiana’s restaurant and…
Latest News The holiday season is upon us, and Thanksgiving kicks off the festivities with family, friends, and incredible meals. Whether you’re preparing a home-cooked feast, ordering from a favorite restaurant, or combining both, food safety should always be a priority. The National Restaurant Association, in partnership with ServSafe® and the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA),…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation (LRAEF) is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week by showcasing the inspiring journeys of apprentices who have thrived in our Restaurant Apprenticeship Program. This initiative connects aspiring hospitality professionals with valuable on-the-job learning experiences, supported by classroom instruction to help them build the foundation for long-term success in the…
Latest News In a significant victory for the restaurant industry, a federal court in Texas has struck down the Department of Labor’s (DOL) 2024 Overtime Rule. This decision prevents sweeping changes to salary thresholds that could have financially burdened businesses nationwide. The Restaurant Law Center and the Texas Restaurant Association, with Angelo Amador as co-counsel,…