Grants the gaming commission the authority to develop, and require racetrack operators to implement, fire protection systems requirements for stables and barns

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Patricia Fahy says this is needed

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.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.