Owners Could Bring Dogs To Dine At State’s Restaurants
Earlier this week the New York State Senate passed a measure that would allow restaurant patrons to bring their dogs to outdoor dining areas. Measure S4327, sponsored by Sen. Kemp Hannon (R-Nassau) would alter state health regulations in order to allow pet dogs to sit outside while their owners dine. Hannon stated in a press release, “With a large percentage of New Yorkers being dog owners, many restaurants would like to accommodate their guests and permit canine companions to join them. However, the current health code prohibits restaurants that wish to make such accommodations from doing so or they will face non-issuance, suspension, or forfeiture of their license if they do allow dogs in outdoor dining areas.” The measure enjoyed unanimous support in the Senate, with 60-0 passage, and is also championed in the Assembly. Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal (D-Manhattan) expressed optimism the bill will pass the Assembly before the Legislature ends it session in June.
Despite the popularity among legislators, some have expressed concerns about dogs interfering with the restaurant experience for patrons. The bill provides concessions such as requiring all dogs be leashed, forbidding communal water bowls, barring dogs from outdoor areas where food is prepared, and mandating separate entrances for dogs and their owners so they don’t walk into the restaurant.
What Happens Next
The bill has passed New York’s Senate, and has now been sent to the Assembly for a second vote.
What This Means For Small Businesses
Many restaurants across New York State are small, family-owned businesses. A measure allowing dogs in outdoor dining areas could offer opportunities for some small businesses by enabling them to offer new dining options as well as eliminating burdensome legal risks, including possible fines and closures, that currently result if a restaurant allows a dog to sit in an outdoor dining area.
Additional Reading
The New York State Senate notes the passage of the measure, as do media outlets including the New York Times, the AP, and the New York Daily News.
