NEW IBERIA, LA – Gov. Jeff Landry announced Monday that New Iberia will officially be renamed “New Louisiana,” while assuring residents the legendary New Iberia haircut will remain protected as a state cultural landmark.
Landry said the change became necessary after officials discovered Iberia was apparently somewhere in Europe.
“Nobody could explain why we had a New Iberia when we never had an Old Iberia,” Landry said. “New Louisiana clears that up.”
The governor emphasized that the name change will not threaten local traditions, especially the distinctive haircut featuring a closely cropped head and several unexplained inches of hair preserved in the back.
Under an executive order, barbers within Iberia Parish will be prohibited from removing the protected rear section without approval from the State Historic Preservation Office.
Officials also confirmed the “Queen City of the Teche” nickname is under review after Landry questioned why Louisiana was still recognizing a monarchy.
Residents will have six months to update their addresses, although officials said existing New Iberia haircuts will be grandfathered in indefinitely.
