NEW YORK CITY — Hotel industry leaders are pushing back against a bill that would impose additional regulations, calling it “unnecessary” and a burden that could hurt the city’s economy.
The revised bill, introduced by New York City Councilwoman Julie Menin (D-Manhattan), would require hotels to hire all employees themselves, including cleaning and maintenance staff, and would prohibit city hotels from subcontracting certain work.
In addition, the draft law requires hotels to have a reception desk staffed at all times. Large hotels would also have to ensure that there is at least one security guard on duty at all times. In addition, hotels would have to apply for an operating license every year.
Supporters of the bill claim that the legislation would help curb crime in city hotels.
The American Hotel and Lodging Association wrote in a letter to the city’s five district attorneys:
“In your recent letter to the New York City Council urging support of the Safe Hotels Act, you repeatedly make claims that criminal charges are more common in hotels and motels than in other locations.”
“We ask that you share these statistics and any other evidence you rely on. Since the alleged aim of the Hotel Licensing Act is to reduce crime, we would also appreciate clarification on how this Act intends to achieve that aim.”
The association also noted that the complaint rate for hotels in the city’s 311 system is low.
Kevin Carey, interim president and CEO of the association, argued that introducing another license to operate hotels would not help achieve the goals of reducing crime.
“What has worked is law enforcement working with the hospitality industry to ensure the safety of our community, employees and guests,” the association wrote.
