The hotel bill mandates licenses, panic buttons for employees, and 24/7 front desk staffing.
The New York City Council is on the verge of passing the Safe Hotels Act, a groundbreaking bill designed to enhance safety measures for both hotel workers and guests. The legislation mandates that hotels must acquire licenses to operate and comply with specific requirements. These include having front desk staff available at all times, providing panic buttons to employees, and maintaining cleanliness in rooms. The bill, backed by 40 Council members and supported by industry groups like the New York Hotel & Gaming Trades Council and the Hotel Association of New York City, aims to address concerns raised by hotel owners while ensuring the well-being of workers and visitors.
Julie Menin, the bill’s sponsor and a Manhattan council member, collaborated with industry leaders to reach a compromise after facing opposition from some hotel owners. The legislation exempts hotels with fewer than 100 rooms from a direct hiring requirement, allowing them to continue using subcontractors for staffing needs. Menin emphasized the importance of regulating hotels like other businesses in the city to safeguard workers, provide essential training, and enhance public safety for guests and communities.
The Safe Hotels Act is poised to set a new standard for hotel operations in New York City, promoting a safer and more secure environment for everyone involved.
Source: The NY Times
