Report Highlights Need for Improved Temporary Work Conditions for Mardi Gras Cleanup in New Orleans
A new report, submitted by NOWCRJ and CLASP to the Mayor’s Office, City of New Orleans, details how the current systems for Mardi Gras cleanup labor have not adequately served the temporary workers essential to the city's signature celebration. The paper, based on worker testimony and public records, identifies shortcomings in the conditions and treatment of these laborers. It proposes a two-part solution to address these issues. Part One outlines seven immediate actions the administration can take before Carnival 2027, utilizing existing authority, starting with a public Labor Compliance Audit of city contracts. This audit would be financed by remaining federal ARPA funds, which expire on December 31, 2026. Part Two introduces the New Orleans Fair Work Ordinance, designed to provide permanent protections for all temporary workers in the city, operating within the bounds of state preemption.
