U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) has recognized Jeremy Aydell, a business owner from Livingston Parish and Mayor of French Settlement, for his role in influencing federal tax policy affecting the beauty industry. Cassidy highlighted Aydell as part of his monthly Local Spotlight initiative, which aims to showcase individuals who embody Louisiana values.
According to Cassidy, Aydell visited his office in June 2024 to advocate for beauticians to be included in President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Bill. Under previous law, employers of waiters and waitresses benefited from a 7.65% payroll tax savings on tips, which allowed them to increase wages and support their staff.
Cassidy stated: “Jeremy saw that, under prior law, employers of waiters and waitresses saved 7.65% in payroll taxes on tips, freeing up money to raise wages, add shifts, and support workers who earn those tips.”
As the owner of Sport Clips franchises in Louisiana, Aydell sought similar benefits for employees in his salons. Cassidy said he supported the proposal when it was brought forward during discussions about President Trump’s tax bill.
“So when Jeremy saw the opportunity to include this in President Trump’s tax bill, I agreed, and we got it done,” Cassidy said.
The final version of the legislation included an employer tip credit for tip income earned by beauticians. This change is expected to allow workers in Louisiana’s beauty industry to retain more of their earnings while providing financial relief for salon owners.
“Because of that meeting—that conversation, Jeremy Aydell, a Louisiana business owner, helped influence national policy. Employer tip credit for tip income was included in the final text of President Trump’s tax bill, and Louisianans working in the beauty industry will take home more of their hard-earned pay, and salon owners will have a much-needed financial break,” Cassidy added.
Cassidy also thanked Aydell directly: “I want to thank Jeremy—give him a shoutout—for coming to my office with that request. You helped make tax policy work better for Louisianans and for people across the country. You make Louisiana proud, and I am proud to have worked with you.”
In previous months’ spotlights, Cassidy has acknowledged other local residents such as search and rescue personnel who assisted during flooding events in Texas.
