BILL NUMBER: S9149
SPONSOR: CLEARE
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public authorities law, in relation to expanding
time-delay mechanisms on emergency exit gates
 
PURPOSE:
To require the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to install
and maintain time-delay egress mechanisms on emergency exit gates at
subway stations, while ensuring emergency override capabilities, compli-
ance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and prohibiting use at
unstaffed stations.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 amends the public authorities law by adding a new section
1279-j requiring the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to install
and reasonably maintain time-delay egress mechanisms on all emergency
exit gates at all subway stations operated by the authority.
Section 1 further provides that, when installing such time-delay egress
mechanisms, the authority shall include override systems to allow imme-
diate exit in the event of emergencies, including fires, power failures,
or emergency evacuations, and shall ensure compliance with the Americans
with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Section 1 additionally prohibits the authority from using time-delay
egress mechanisms at unstaffed subway stations. If a station becomes
unstaffed, the authority is required to deactivate the time-delay mech-
anism until a trained human station agent is physically present and on
duty.
Section 2 sets forth the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has already implemented time-
delay mechanisms on emergency exit gates at certain subway stations to
help curb fare evasion. As New York City's subway system is a critical
lifeline for low-income New Yorkers, seniors, people with disabilities,
and essential workers, it is essential that the use of these mechanisms
prioritizes safety, accessibility, and fairness. This legislation estab-
lishes clear statutory standards to ensure equity-centered implementa-
tion by requiring emergency override systems, full compliance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and prohibiting the use of
time-delay mechanisms at unstaffed stations where riders may need
assistance. By centering accessibility, emergency preparedness, and
staffing protections, the bill supports a transit system that serves all
New Yorkers safely and equitably.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
N/A
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Immediately