TRA News Now - Mid Session Update

As the 86th Legislative Session races towards the May 27 deadline, TRA's legislative priorities are making headway. Our latest TRA News Now includes are mid-April updates, and a current list may also be found on our advocacy page.

Paco Vargas wins Faces of Diversity Award

On March 27, 2019, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation celebrated restaurant industry stars at the annual Restaurant Industry Awards, in Washington, DC. 

The Texas Restaurant Association was proud to have one of its members, Francisco “Paco” Vargas (Vargas Cut & Catch by Paco, Rudy and Paco Restaurant & Bar) as a recipient of one of three Faces of Diversity American Dream Awards. This prestigious award honors those who have achieved success through perseverance and determination, embodying the American Dream.

TRA Members Take to Capitol Hill

More than 30 Texas restaurateurs headed to our nation’s Capitol on March 27 and 28 to broaden legislative horizons and advocate for the industry at the 33rd annual National Restaurant Association Public Affairs Conference.

Texas joined 600 industry leaders from 42 state restaurant associations for two full, whirlwind days of seminars, legislative insights and lobbying on Capitol Hill.      

TRA News Now - Oppose the Wine Carry-In Bill

H.B. 3897 would allow a consumer to bring their own wine into a restaurant that has a mixed beverage permit. TRA has successfully opposed this concept in the past, most recently in 2011. At that time, it was the trigger issue that both engaged and enraged restaurateurs more than any issue in decades at the Capitol. In fact, large scale, upscale, independent, and restaurants of all sizes oppose this legislation.