CM Wong introduces new bills focused on public safety, nightlife oversight and fire prevention

The two bills — Intro 920 and Intro 921 — are intended to enhance public safety and reinforce accountability on businesses and residential buildings to responsibly manage their operations within District 30. District 30, an area that covers Ridgewood, Middle Village, Glendale, Maspeth, Elmhurst and Rego Park, has witnessed growing concerns related to public safety in the aftermath of various incidents, including the April 26 shooting at Amadeus Nightclub in Elmhurst that left a number of casualties. Since then, Wong and Council Member Shekar Krishnan have both denounced the act of violence, calling for “swift action” to restore quality of life.

“These are common-sense measures focused on protecting public safety and improving accountability,” Wong said in a statement. “Whether it’s giving law enforcement more flexibility to respond to problematic nightlife establishments or addressing the growing fire risks tied to lithium-ion powered devices in residential buildings, these bills are about keeping our communities safe and improving quality of life.”

The first bill, Intro 920, would amend the New York City Fire Code to “remove an exemption that currently allows powered mobility devices to be stored and charged inside dwelling units in certain residential apartment buildings,” according to a press release. Moreover, the exemption would be removed from §309.3 of the New York City Fire Code, which allows the storage and charging of said devices in Group R-2 occupancy buildings.

The bill is designed to address persistent fire safety concerns tied to lithium-ion batteries and to minimize the risk of dangerous fires in multi-family residential buildings.

The co-sponsors are Council Member Farah N. Louis and Council Member Frank Morano.

The second bill, Intro 921, would shorten the mandated notice period before the NYPD can initiate multi-agency community hotspot operations at nightlife establishments from 30 days to 7 days. The bill also clarifies that “advance notice would not be required when an establishment lacks a valid place of assembly permit or poses serious safety concerns related to overcrowding or other hazards.” In addition, the legislation includes technical amendments related to the Office of Nightlife.

The second bill’s co-sponsor is Louis.

As of press time, the Minutes for the meeting held on Wednesday, May 20, have not been finalized.