Requires a certain class (J-2) of residential buildings in New York city to have emergency lighting

BILL NUMBER:S3038

Title of bill

An act to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to requiring emergency lighting or illumination in certain residential buildings

Purpose or general idea of bill

To require a certain class of residential buildings in New York city to have emergency lighting in like manner as other residential buildings.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 adds a new section 27-3024.1 to the administrative code of the city of New York that requires buildings classified as J-2 (apartment houses and apartment hotels, to be equipped with emergency lighting). This classification of residential buildings shall conform to J-1 residential buildings which are hotels, motels, lodging houses and rooming houses.

Justification

The blackout of August 2003 wreaked havoc throughout the state but especially in New York city where residential buildings do not have emergency lighting. It is an absolute necessity that all residential apartment buildings are equipped with lighting to assist individuals, young and old alike, to egress safely from their homes.

This legislation will bring into conformity residential apartment buildings with all other types of residential facilities.

Prior legislative history

2009: S.3342 (Duane), Died in Housing 2010: S.3342 (Duane), Died in Housing

Fiscal implications

Undetermined.

Effective date

Immediately.