Mandates bathroom facilities in parking lots associated with structures having a seating capacity of six thousand or more

Requirements of this legislation may be waived by the Commissioner of the Office of General Services upon a showing that strict compliance would be physically or legally impossible or would be unnecessary in the light of certain proposed alternatives which would achieve the intended objective more efficiently, effectively or economically. However, such alternatives may not include indoor bathroom facilities within the place of business itself Applications for waiver may be made to the Commissioner in writing and decisions rendered thereon within sixty days of receipt. The Commissioner may also allow the use of portable toilets in place of a stationery building with the required number of water closets under limited circumstances for a defined period of time.

Section two of the bill specifies the effective date of the bill.

Justification

Clean public rest rooms in New York are often few and far between. Rest room availability and accessibility protects the health and welfare of the general public, reduces the spread of disease and improves the viability of our communities. The need for safe, clean public bathroom facilities is a significant quality of life issue. How much more critical is providing such facilities in the parking lots of concert, sport or theater venues where large numbers of the public gather for major events. Convenient access and the availability of secure sanitary facilities in the parking lots of structures having seating capacities of six thousand or more as proposed by this legislation will further the public good and general welfare of society. It will help avoid the serious health conditions which arise today at these venues when the only available rest room may be inside the facility at an extended distance from the parking lot and lacking in easy access for the disabled and others. Requiring convenient and accessible lavatory facilities in certain large parking lots will be an assist to patrons of these venues and will make their experiences more enjoyable. It will also avoid the very serious health issues which arise when persons are forced to postpone going to the bathroom for an extended period of time. This bill goes a long way toward protecting the health of New Yorkers and others when attending public events in large venues.

Legislative history

2007-08: Senate Consumer Protection Committee

Fiscal implications

Undetermined.

Local fiscal implications

Undetermined.

Effective date

This act takes effect the first day of July next succeeding the date on which it shall have become law. Effective immediately the Commissioner of the Office of General Services is authorized and directed to make any addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date.