KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Louisiana tightened unemployment work-search rules and expanded employer reporting authority starting January 2026
• Fifth Circuit overturned the DOL’s 80/20/30 rule, easing tip credit compliance for New Orleans restaurants
• Major 2026 tax and benefits changes affect 401(k) catch-up contributions, student loan reimbursements, overtime taxes, and paid leave credits

At the beginning of every year, HR managers often find themselves navigating new and changing workplace laws. To help business leaders better understand the evolving labor and employment law landscape in 2026, New Orleans CityBusiness interviewed local L&E attorneys about some of the top new laws, changing policies, and common compliance challenges.

A Look at New & Changing Louisiana Employment Laws and Court Decisions

Louisiana has tightened unemployment benefit eligibility under Stricter Unemployment “Work Search” Requirements Act No. 151. The new law requires unemployment claimants to complete five weekly work-search activities (up from three), such as applying for jobs, attending interviews, or updating résumés. It applies to new claims filed on or after Jan. 4, 2026.

Doris Bobadilla, L&E attorney and director at Galloway Johnson Tompkins Burr & Smith, said the change expands employers’ roles in enforcing the system.

“The Act empowers employers to report no-shows or interview ghosts directly to the Louisiana Workforce Commission,” Bobadilla said. “It essentially ‘deputizes’ HR...

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