The New York State Latino Restaurant, Bar & Lounge Association Joined Press Conference in Support of the HOST Act in Hell’s Kitchen
On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Millie Sialer, Chief Marketing Officer of the New York State Latino Restaurant, Bar & Lounge Association (NYSLRA), joined Assemblymember Tony Simone, elected officials, and industry and community stakeholders at Gossip Bar in Hell’s Kitchen to support the passage of the HOST Act.
The press conference was held in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup, which is expected to bring millions of visitors to New York and generate significant economic activity for the region. Leaders gathered to call for the passage of the Hospitality and Open Space Transformation (HOST) Act, legislation that would allow municipalities to establish Entertainment Zones across New York State to better manage tourism, activate public spaces, and support local hospitality businesses during major international events.
Millie Sialer joined the conversation on behalf of NYSLRA, reinforcing the importance of ensuring that restaurants, bars, lounges, and small hospitality businesses are positioned to benefit from the influx of visitors expected during the World Cup. As an advocate for Latino and multicultural hospitality businesses, NYSLRA recognized the HOST Act as an important opportunity to help neighborhood establishments participate in the economic momentum surrounding one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
Modeled after successful legislation implemented in Washington State, the HOST Act was presented as a practical, time-limited solution that would give local governments responsible flexibility to create safe, well-managed entertainment zones while maintaining public safety, accessibility, and community oversight.
With the 2026 World Cup expected to be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across North America, stakeholders emphasized the urgency of preparing New York’s hospitality sector now. For NYSLRA, the moment underscored the need for policy, planning, and partnership to ensure that small businesses, workers, and culturally diverse communities are included in the benefits of this global celebration.
About NYSLRA
The New York State Latino Restaurant, Bar & Lounge Association (NYSLRA) is a leading advocacy and business support organization representing Latino and multicultural hospitality businesses across New York. Through policy advocacy, partnerships, education, and community engagement, NYSLRA works to strengthen the restaurant, bar, lounge, and nightlife sector while uplifting the entrepreneurs and communities behind it.
