The Louisiana Legislature is taking significant steps to combat the growing issue of unauthorized reservation trading with a new bill aimed at regulating third-party reservation services. During a recent meeting on April 15, 2025, lawmakers discussed the implications of the proposed legislation, which seeks to impose civil penalties on entities that resell restaurant reservations without proper agreements.

The bill, which has garnered support from various stakeholders, aims to protect restaurants and their clientele from the negative impacts of reservation trading. Lawmakers highlighted the frustrations of establishments like Commander's Palace, where customers have reported being charged fees for reservations that the restaurant never received. This practice not only affects the restaurant's revenue but also leads to empty tables when customers opt out of paying for reservations.

Key provisions of the bill include civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day for violations, which will be enforced by the Louisiana Attorney General's office. This measure is designed to provide restaurants with a mechanism to report unauthorized third-party services and seek recourse. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of diligence in monitoring these platforms and ensuring that restaurants are aware of their rights under the new legislation.

Representatives expressed concerns about the enforcement of the bill, particularly regarding the challenges posed by automated bots and offshore accounts that may complicate the identification of violators. However, they remain optimistic that the legislation will empower restaurants to take action against bad actors in the reservation trading space.

As the bill moves forward, lawmakers are committed to ensuring that it effectively addresses the issues at hand while protecting the interests of both restaurants and consumers. The anticipated outcome is a more transparent reservation system that enhances the dining experience for patrons without the burden of additional fees.