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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 veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing long-term unemployment.

The WOTC has been a critical tool for the restaurant industry, where employers are continually searching for workers to fill hundreds of thousands of job openings. For many in the workforce, including veterans and SNAP recipients, the WOTC offers an opportunity to overcome employment challenges, providing both economic benefits to individuals and supporting business viability.

Senator Cassidy's bill proposes key updates to the program, including increasing the credit percentage from 40% to 50% of qualified wages, adding a second level of credit for employees who work 400 or more hours, and eliminating the arbitrary age cap for SNAP recipients. These changes are designed to boost job growth, ease labor shortages, and promote long-term employment.

As restaurants in Louisiana serve as essential training grounds for skill development, the LRA sees the WOTC as a critical resource for fostering workforce opportunities and contributing to local economic vitality. The bill has garnered widespread support from a variety of industries, including the National Restaurant Association, and will continue to advocate for legislation that strengthens the economy and creates more job opportunities.