On May 1, Kermit Ruffins announced via Facebook that he was retiring from running the Mother-in-Law Lounge.

“For 16 years, I have managed and ran the whole bar far ass all responsibilities this Tuesday is my last day now I get to sit there smoke reefer drink beer go out to Sunday brunch with the family get on Blossom nerves 100% more barbecue go hang out at all the jazz clubs throughout the city yes I still have ownership and it’s a blessing that I don’t have to wake up thinking about ordering liquor, paying bills or nothing. I am so relieved already and yes, we will still be playing at the mother-in-law lounge every week and may even add another day, let’s get ready to party.!!!!!!!!!! and relax at leisure!!!!!!!!!!” he wrote.

In September 2020, City officials clashed with Ruffins after temporarily shutting down the lounge for allegedly violating Covid-19 safety restrictions. The City of New Orleans, which had not yet moved into Phase Three with the rest of Louisiana, cited the venue for operating as a bar and allowing large gatherings beneath the North Claiborne I-10 overpass. Officials said repeated warnings had been ignored and issued cease and desist orders for both 1500 and 1544 N. Claiborne Ave.

Originally opened in 1994 by Ernie and Antoinette K-Doe, the lounge was purchased by Ruffins in 2011 to preserve their legacy.