Provides for enhanced review of licenses issued to construct, maintain and operate newsstands in the city of New York

Title of bill

An act to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to the licensing of newsstands

Purpose of bill

Provides for enhanced review of licenses issued to construct, maintain and operate newsstands in the City of New York, including additional evaluation of applications by community boards and the City Council

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 adds a new Section 20-229.1 to the Administrative Code of the City of New York.

Section 2 establishes the effective date.

Justification

Under current law in New York City, applications for the approval of sidewalk newsstands are subject to particular regulations promulgated by the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Department of Transportation. However, beyond an applicant meeting certain business requirements and spacing requirements that are in place, no mechanism exists to include input from an affected community as to the location of a sidewalk newsstand. As a result, the Department of Consumer Affairs has no choice but to approve an application if criteria are met even in the face of opposition voiced by a surrounding community.

This legislation would allow for a review process that is similar to that currently in place for applications for sidewalk cafes. As part of this process, community boards are forwarded all applications for their review and recommendations. The City Council then has the power to approve or deny an application based on a host of factors, which would include weighing input from the community. The legislation is an important step forward in ensuring that the voice of the community is heard when decisions are being made that directly affect residents' quality of life.

Prior legislative history

New bill.

Fiscal implications

To be determined.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first of January next succeeding the date on which it shall have become a law.