By Carlotta Mohamed
State Assemblywoman Nily Rozic’s legislation to reform the application process for liquor permits that allow businesses to continue serving alcohol from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. was signed into law last week by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
The bill, which was sponsored in the state Senate by Tony Avella, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. It was signed by Cuomo on Dec. 7.
Rozic, who authored the legislation, thanked Cuomo for signing the bill to help improve neighborhoods and giving residents an avenue to address their concerns.
“This new law ensures that Community Boards are given advance notice when a bar or restaurant applies for an all-night permit,” said Rozic. “Requiring the notice, empowers neighborhood stakeholders to have a voice in the process and allows for a balance between the quality of life and public safety of local residents and business interests.”
Currently, the State Liquor Authority (SLA) requires businesses to notify the local police precinct or county sheriff when businesses submit their applications. Approval of the application means that the businesses can remain open on any weekday between the hours of 4 a.m. and 8 a.m.
Rozic’s bill includes Community Boards in the process by requiring businesses to notify them as well.
“We are pleased that due to Assemblywoman Rozic’s advocacy on behalf of the community and her tenacity that the State Liquor Authority will be required to inform Community Boards of all night liquor sale applications,” said Marie Adam-Ovide, district manager, of Community Board 8.
Reach reporter Carlotta Mohamed by e-mail at cmoha
