BILL NUMBER: S10656
SPONSOR: FAHY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law, in
relation to granting the gaming commission the authority to develop, and
require racetrack operators to implement, fire protection systems
requirements for stables and barns
 
PURPOSE:
This bill adds a new subdivision 25 to section 104 of the Racing, Pari-
Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law to give the Gaming Commission the power
to develop, and require all racetrack operators licensed by the commis-
sion to implement, fire protection systems requirements necessary to
ensure early detection and suppression of stable and barn fires.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 adds a new subdivision 25 of section 104 of the racing, pari-
mutuel wagering and breeding law to give the Gaming Commission the power
to develop, and require all racetrack operators licensed by the commis-
sion to implement, fire protection systems requirements form stables and
barns.
Section 2 sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Modern fire suppression systems are widely recognized as one of the most
effective means of containing a fire in its earliest stages, protecting
both human and animal life and minimizing property damage. Many race-
track barns in New York were constructed before modern fire safety codes
were adopted and, as a result, are exempt from requirements that apply
to newer structures.
Consequently, some barns that house racehorses and employ numerous work-
ers continue to operate without modern fire suppression systems.
Current law does not provide clear authority for the New York State
Gaming Commission to require fire suppression retrofits to these older
facilities located at racetracks licensed by the Commission.
This bill addresses that gap by granting the Commission authority
consult with the New York State Building Codes Council to develop stand-
ards for fire protection systems in racetrack stables and barns, and to
require licensed racetracks to implement such systems. By providing the
Commission with this authority, New York can take a proactive step
toward preventing future tragedies and ensuring that racetrack facili-
ties meet reasonable modern fire safety standards.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.