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Key Issues for Louisiana’s Restaurant Industry
By Stan Harris, President & CEO, Louisiana Restaurant Association
Mar 18, 2025
Mar 18, 2025
At the Louisiana Restaurant Association, we are the trusted advisor for Louisiana’s restaurant industry. Advocacy is at the heart of our mission, ensuring that our members have a voice in decisions that impact their businesses. As engaged citizens and business owners, staying informed on legislative and regulatory issues is crucial. Here are three key areas where your involvement is needed in the coming weeks.
- Upcoming Election – Saturday, March 29
Louisiana voters will decide on four constitutional amendments, each affecting governance and economic policies:
- Amendment 1: Expands the Louisiana Supreme Court’s authority over out-of-state lawyers and allows the legislature to create specialized trial courts.
- Amendment 2: Lowers the maximum income tax rate, increases senior deductions, and directs surplus funds to teacher retirement debt.
- Amendment 3: Grants the legislature power to decide which juvenile felonies can be tried in adult court.
- Amendment 4: Requires judicial vacancies to be filled through special elections as soon as possible rather than waiting up to a year.
Additionally, local measures may be on your ballot, so review yours at sos.la.gov.
Beyond voting, staying engaged in local government decisions is critical. Recently, LRA members in the French Quarter helped prevent a last-minute disruption to a sanitation contract ahead of festival season. This underscores the importance of early advocacy—if an issue affects your business, let us know.
- National Restaurant Association Public Affairs Conference – April 1-3
More than 30 LRA members will join restaurant leaders nationwide in Washington, D.C., to discuss policies affecting our industry. One pressing issue is tariffs on food products. The National Restaurant Association has raised concerns with the White House about potential cost increases on food, packaging, and equipment. With a 25% tariff delay in place until April 2, we are closely monitoring developments.
- Louisiana Legislative Session – Begins April 14
Mark your calendars for LRA Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, April 29, in Baton Rouge. The day includes:
- Lunch and legislative briefings at the Baton Rouge City Club
- Meetings with state lawmakers at the Capitol
- A special reception for LRA members
This is your chance to advocate for policies that impact your business, including workforce development, taxation, insurance, and regulations.
Your Voice Matters
The LRA is here to represent you, but our influence is strongest when members are engaged. Whether it’s voting, staying informed, or joining us at the Capitol, your participation makes a difference.
For any questions during the legislative session, contact the LRA Office. Thank you for your support and commitment to Louisiana’s restaurant industry.