President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association Stan Harris said the industry is still struggling and eateries in the state failed to receive their fair share of funding from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.
“Of the $28.6 billion it was fully subscribed but in Louisiana, we had a request for a little over a billion dollars and we only saw $390-million get funded,” said Harris.
Harris said originally restaurants asked Congress for $120 billion but only received $28.6-billion. Stipulations were also added to the funding that women-owned, veteran-owned, and socially and economically disadvantaged restaurants were given priority.
Harris said for the Bayou State there are almost 3,000 restaurants, bars, craft brewers, and entertainment venues still in need.
“That are qualified for this program to apply who are still seeking $628-million in support to be able to keep their business alive,” said Harris.
Harris said the National Restaurant Association has asked Congress for more funding to be added to the RRF to offer relief for pending applications. In Louisiana, Harris said 62-percent of applicants didn’t receive any funding, and as the industry continues to face pandemic hurdles and a worker shortage…
“And you have to ask yourself, gosh you know if I’m out of money how long am I going to be able to hold on and not be able to pay my bills,” said Harris.
Harris said while they’ve received positive feedback from the Louisiana Congressional delegation, they fear the length of time it would take to receive funding will only force more owners to close their doors.
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